World Fair Trade Organization – WFTO

The World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) Certification focuses on social enterprise and Fair Trade, assessing the entire business rather than just specific products or supply chains. This comprehensive approach makes it relevant for businesses committed to ethical and sustainable practices. The certification evaluates an enterprise's structure, business model, operations, and supply chains, ensuring a high level of scrutiny.

Key Features

• The certification is based on 10 Fair Trade Principles, which include transparency, fair payment, and environmental protection.

• Many of these principles are mandatory requirements for joining the WFTO, while others require continuous improvement over time.

• The certification assesses not just products or specific supply chains but the entire business, including its operations and business model.

Trustworthiness

To acquire the WFTO Certification, businesses undergo a rigorous process that includes peer reviews, independent audits, and self-assessment reports. An auditor visits selected suppliers to check conditions and practices, and the findings are reviewed by the WFTO. This multi-layered approach ensures that the certification is robust and credible.

Duration and Renewal

The certification does not specify a validity period but emphasizes ongoing improvement. The WFTO Standard and Guarantee System Committee periodically reviews and updates the standard, encouraging businesses to continuously improve their operations.

Impact and Significance

Obtaining the WFTO Certification offers substantial benefits. For the organization, it serves as a robust indicator of commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. For stakeholders, it provides assurance that the business operates according to high ethical standards across its entire operation, not just in specific products or supply chains. However, the comprehensive nature of the certification may make it challenging for some businesses to obtain.