WHAT IS FAIR TRADE?

Izara Arts is a member of the World Fair Trade Organization-Asia and undergoes periodic audits to verify that it abides by internationally agreed rules on Fair Trade.

"Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers.

Fair Trade organizations have a clear commitment to Fair Trade as the principal core of their mission. They, backed by consumers, are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.

Fair Trade is more than just trading: it proves that greater justice in world trade is possible. It highlights the need for change in the rules and practice of conventional trade and shows how a successful business can also put people first."

-- World Fair Trade Organization

How Izara Arts practises fair trade :

- we design beautiful products based on traditional techniques and local cultures using natural materials (silk, cotton, bamboo, etc)                   

- we train local handicraft groups to make these products, underwriting the risk and cost of training

- we find western markets which are prepared to pay a generous price for beautiful objects and support a living wage for producers

- we support the producer communities by reinvesting part of the profits we generate to develop those communities

- we expand the number of communities we assist by using remaining profits to design new products and locate new distribution channels