INTERNATIONAL DAY

World Fair Trade Day

World Fair Trade Day tips its hat to the tinkerers and the tradespeople — the ones who build, fix, and keep the lights on.

MAY9
Saturday, May 9Second Saturday in May
Roots
Created by the World Fair Trade Organization in 2001
Vibe
A global celebration of ethical practices
Hashtag
#WorldFairTradeDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate World Fair Trade Day.

  • Fix one thing you've been meaning to fix.
  • Teach someone how to use a tool they don't own yet.
  • Tip and review the tradesperson who helped you recently.
  • Tidy the toolbox, the shop, or the junk drawer.
  • Support a local hardware store this week.

Make it your kind of celebration

  • Family

    Fix one thing together. Let the kids hand you the tools.

  • Kids

    Teach them the name and use of one tool — really teach it.

  • Couples

    Pick a weekend project and actually finish it.

  • Office

    Acknowledge the facilities and maintenance team — they are your office.

  • School

    Highlight trades as real, valuable career paths.

  • Community

    Support a local trade school, apprenticeship, or rebuilding program.

  • Just me

    Tune up your toolbox or workspace. It pays you back.

Fast facts

Over 1.5 millionFarmers benefit from fair trade
2020Fair trade sales reached $9.8 billion in 2020

The story

World Fair Trade Day is an annual celebration that promotes the principles of fair trade across the globe. Established in 2001 by the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), this day seeks to raise awareness about fair trade and its positive impact on communities. With millions of farmers and artisans benefiting from fair trade practices, the movement encourages consumers to make informed purchasing decisions that support ethical practices.

Read the full story

On this day, various events take place worldwide, ranging from local fairs and markets to educational workshops. In the United States, communities come together to celebrate fair trade through festivals that feature artisan products, food, and music. These gatherings not only promote fair trade goods but also foster a sense of community and solidarity among consumers and producers alike.

The fair trade movement emphasizes the importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmental sustainability. By supporting fair trade, consumers can contribute to reducing poverty and empowering marginalized communities. This movement extends beyond borders, connecting people from different cultures and backgrounds through shared values of equity and justice.

As we approach World Fair Trade Day, it is vital to reflect on the choices we make as consumers. By opting for fair trade products, individuals can play a role in creating a more equitable global economy. This day serves as a reminder that our purchasing power can drive positive change, supporting artisans, farmers, and communities in need.

Did you know?

01

Fair Trade vs. Free Trade

Fair trade prioritizes equitable practices over profit-driven motives.

02

First Fair Trade Label

The first fair trade label was created in 1988 in the Netherlands.

03

Fair Trade Coffee

Coffee is one of the most popular fair trade products globally.

04

Global Sales Growth

Fair trade sales have grown significantly over the past two decades.

05

Women Empowerment

Fair trade initiatives often focus on empowering women in developing countries.

06

Artisan Craftsmanship

Artisans in fair trade cooperatives produce unique, handcrafted goods.

07

Consumer Awareness

Increasing awareness of fair trade has led to higher demand for ethical products.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USNorth AmericaFair trade has gained traction in the U.S. and Canada, promoting ethical consumption.
  • GBEuropeMany European countries actively support fair trade initiatives and policies.
  • BRSouth AmericaFair trade cooperatives empower farmers across the continent.
  • INAsiaAsian artisans benefit from fair trade practices, gaining access to global markets.
  • AUAustraliaAustralia has a growing fair trade movement, focusing on ethical sourcing.
  • ZAAfricaFair trade helps African communities achieve sustainable development.

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