What is FAIR TRADE ?
Fair trade is a global movement of international trade that nurtures sustainable development through fair and equitable trading partnerships. Fair trade strives to alleviate poverty by providing direct market access to artisan groups, translating into more benefits to the producers.
The mainstream market systems are dominated by long trade chains and high profit margins, where the majority of the profits are split by numerous intermediaries, and the producers receive very low wages for their work. Fair trade companies work directly with producer groups and pay fair and sustainable wages for their work.
Why is Fair Trade Important?
Fair Trade invests in social and economic opportunities for marginalized producers and this helps them to maintain a sustainable livelihood; a livelihood that not only meets day-to-day needs for economic, social and environmental well-being, but that also enables improved conditions in the future. Prices and payment terms (including prepayment where required) are determined by assessment of these factors rather than just reference to current market conditions. Additionally, there is a commitment to a long-term trading partnership.
Fair Trade relationships take account of all costs of production, both direct and indirect, including the safeguarding of natural resources and meeting future investment needs.
Sevya’s Commitment to Fair Trade
Sevya works with cooperatives and non-profit organizations throughout India to keep the artisan traditions alive and sustainable. We are also dedicated to reviving the traditions of using natural materials and low impact dyes, which helps to reduce the impact of chemical byproducts in the environment, and in the garments we wear.
Our fair trade clothing and accessories are handmade using the traditional crafts of block-printing, hand-loom, tie-dye and embroidery. The artistic traditions behind these products stem from indigenous cultures which value the earth’s resources and also value the wisdom inherent in these traditions.
By buying wholesale and retail fair trade products, you help to:
- Preserve Indigenous Cultures
- Support Traditional Artisan Communities
- Invest in Community-Based Development Programs
- Safeguard Natural Resources
- Protect the Earth from Exploitation & Pollution
Sevya is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation.