Since its launch in 1994, the FAIRTRADE Mark has become established as a credible, independent consumer guarantee for products that help producers in developing countries get a better deal from international trade.

The FAIRTRADE Mark is an independent consumer label which appears on products as an independent guarantee that disadvantaged producers in the developing world are getting a better deal.

For a product to display the FAIRTRADE Mark it must meet international Fairtrade standards. These standards are set by the international certification body Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International (FLO). Our FLO ID is 5006.

Producer organisations that supply Fairtrade products are inspected and certified by FLO. They receive a minimum price that covers the cost of sustainable production and an extra premium that is invested in social or economic development projects.

• The Fairtrade guaranteed minimum price covers the costs of production and provides a sustainable livelihood for the producers
• The Fairtrade premium enables co-operatives to fund projects that benefit the organisation and wider community: business and agricultural training; drilling bore holes for clean water; building schools and clinics
• Fairtrade producers benefit from advance payment and long-term relationships with buyers
• Fairtrade producer groups are democratically run and respect the rights of farmers and farm workers Fairtrade production standards encourage sustainable agriculture and protection of the environment.
• Fairtrade guarantees farmers a fair and stable price which allows them to plan for their future. The increased income from Fairtrade sales will help farmers to develop organic programmes, install environmentally friendly drip irrigation and improve social provision such as healthcare and education.

If you would like to read more about Fairtrade please download the Fairtrade Explained brochure (PDF Reader Required).

Further information can be found on The Fairtrade Foundation website.

FAQ about Fairtrade Cotton