Bhathiya Barukanda
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) recently hosted a workshop on the Fair Trade Certification Process in Sri Lanka bringing 02 prominent certification entities to a one platform. The workshop aimed to educate Sri Lankan producers and exporters about Fair Trade certification processes and the importance of acquiring such certification.
The workshop highlighted Fair Trade standards that encompass both food and nonfood items produced and sold ethically and sustainably. These standards are governed by principles established by fair trade organizations, ensuring sustainable and ethical production practices. Fair Trade certification offers assurances of fair incomes, better working conditions, and community empowerment, thereby supporting sustainable practices and increasing global demand, particularly benefiting developing countries.
In 2024, the EDB signed the Framework of Cooperation (FOC) with the relevant local and international Fair Trade networks, underscoring its commitment to develop the Fair Trade industry. As a pivotal step, the EDB collaborated with Fairtrade NAPP Sri Lanka (Fairtrade Network of Asia & Pacific Producers, Sri Lanka) and WFTO Asia (World Fair Trade Organization, Asia) to organize the educational workshop.
The event provided a platform for participants to interact with representatives from two prominent Fair Trade certifications: Fairtrade NAPP – Sri Lanka, and WFTO Asia. Attendees gained insights into the Fair Trade certification process, standards, and the benefits of acquiring such certification. Discussions also featured challenges and opportunities in Fair Trade practices.
Key speakers included Mr. Rajarathnam Gnanasekaran, Chairman of Fairtrade NAPP, Sri Lanka; Ms. M.V. Iresha Sanjeewanie, Climate Focal Point for Fairtrade NAPP & Fairtrade Program Manager, Sri Lanka; Mr. Joseph Johny, Former WFTO Global Board Member, Mr. G.A.S. Priyantha, Lead Auditor for Sustainable Fair Trade Management System of WFTO, Sri Lanka; and Ms. Selyna Peiris, Director of Selyn Fair Trade, who is a Certified Member of WFTO, Sri Lanka. Mr Joseph Johny is from Creative Handicrafts which a fair Trade is certified company in India was also present in physically to the workshop.
The workshop concluded with a comprehensive understanding in Fair Trade principles, certification processes, audit criteria & processes and practical insights shared by industry experts, empowering participants with knowledge to enhance their engagement in ethical and sustainable trade practices.
The workshop was attended by more than 100 participants from both public and private sector organizations and gained wealth of knowledge in Fair Trade certification and its latest developments.
