Standard Owner Benchmark - WORLD FAIR TRADE ORGANIZATION (WFTO)

The World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) is a global network of organizations dedicated to promoting fair trade principles and practices. It was founded in 1989 as the International Federation of Alternative Trade (IFAT) and later adopted its current name in 2009. The WFTO's mission is to enable producers, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, to improve their livelihoods and have sustainable trading relationships.

The WFTO consists of more than 300 member organizations from over 70 countries, including fair trade producers, marketers, exporters, importers, and support organizations. These members adhere to the WFTO's 10 Principles of Fair Trade, which encompass social, economic, and environmental aspects of fair trade, such as fair prices, fair wages, no child labor, gender equity, and environmental sustainability.

The organization serves as a platform for its members to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge and best practices in the fair trade movement. It facilitates networking opportunities, promotes dialogue, and provides capacity-building support to its members.

One of the key roles of the WFTO is to provide fair trade certification. The WFTO's Fair Trade Guarantee System ensures that members meet the organization's fair trade standards and are committed to fair and ethical practices throughout their supply chains. The WFTO Fair Trade Certification Mark is used by member organizations to demonstrate their compliance with the WFTO's principles and to differentiate their products in the marketplace.

The WFTO also engages in advocacy and lobbying efforts to promote fair trade at international, regional, and national levels. It works to raise awareness about fair trade principles and to advocate for policies that support fair trade practices and market access for fair trade products.

Furthermore, the WFTO plays an important role in promoting market access for fair trade products and supporting the development of fair trade networks and businesses. It organizes events, campaigns, and trade fairs to showcase fair trade products and facilitate business connections between fair trade producers and buyers.

Overall, the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) is a global network that promotes fair trade principles and practices. Through its certification, advocacy, and networking initiatives, the WFTO aims to create positive social and economic change by enabling fair and sustainable trading relationships and improving the livelihoods of producers in marginalized communities worldwide.