Demystifying the Mark:

Fairtrade vs. Fair Trade

Fairtrade International and Fair Trade USA are the two certifying fair trade seals. The two organizations parted ways in 2011 over a fundamental disagreement: volume vs values.

Fairtrade International

“Quality over quantity.”

Certifies products sold around the world — everything but the US market.

Higher standards.

Lower volume.

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 Fair Trade USA

“Volume equals impact.”

Certifies products sold in the US.

Split with Fairtrade International in 2011. Works with large companies like Dole Food, where Fairtrade International works only with small producer co-ops.

Lower standards.

Higher volume.

Read: Fair Trade vs Free Trade