- Categories:
- Cause
- Tags:
- FinancialShopping
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every October
- Holiday emoji:
- 🤝
Fair Trade Month is observed throughout October, highlighting the importance of supporting businesses that prioritize ethical sourcing and fair wages for producers worldwide. Take action by seeking out Fair Trade certified products and advocating for a more equitable global economy.
Want to sponsor Fair Trade Month? Learn how
Fair Trade Month timeline
The first World Fair Trade Day was celebrated as part of the World Fair Trade Movement.
Ten Thousand Villages, a retailer, became one of the first trade shops in the U.S.
Sales Exchange for Refugee Rehabilitation and Vocation (SERRV) started trading with poor communities in the South. It's seen as one of the first fair trade initiatives in the U.S.
Fair Trade Month FAQs
When is Fair Trade Month?
Fair Trade Month runs throughout October 2026, from the 1st to the 31st. It’s an entire month dedicated to raising awareness and promoting ethical consumption.
How many products are Fair Trade certified?
Globally, there are tens of thousands of Fair Trade certified products available, ranging from coffee and chocolate to apparel and fresh produce. Fair Trade USA alone certifies thousands of products across various categories.
What is the economic impact of Fair Trade?
Fair Trade generates hundreds of millions of dollars in additional income for farmers and workers each year through premium payments and fair prices. This directly impacts community development, education, and healthcare.
What does 'Fair Trade certified' mean?
Fair Trade certified means a product meets rigorous standards that ensure producers receive fair prices, workers have safe conditions, and environmentally sound practices are used. It’s verified by independent third-party organizations.
How to Observe Fair Trade Month
#FindFairTrade
During the month, you are encouraged to #FindFairTrade and buy from those businesses. Search for a list of retail stores and online shops.
Share fair trade resources
The actual definition of fair trade is confusing to many. Share resources from the Fair Trade Federation on your social media page or in your community to help others learn.
Become a fair trade federation member
You can become a member online if you are a business owner. This membership comes with benefits like a business community, annual conference, and other leadership opportunities.
3 Fair Trade Myths
It's charity
The relationships established as part of the fair trade movement are self-sufficient. Your money is not going to charity.
It's more expensive
Most fair trade items are competitively priced with American goods that are also handmade.
It takes away U.S. jobs
Most of the products and services offered through fair trade are not generally available in the U.S. or represented in the U.S. These products represent diversity, not replacement.
Why Fair Trade Month is Important
It supports a fair system
The Fair Trade Federation endorses businesses operating under a higher standard of respect and transparency. This helps business owners and entrepreneurs in developing countries have a chance to succeed.
It's about creating opportunity
The fair trade system spreads this opportunity to developing nations and business people.
It's adventurous
Seek out new businesses that are Fair Trade certified and you'll stumble upon all kinds of international products that offer something you may not normally find.
