Research shows that consumers prioritize the social impact of the clothing they purchase. According to the Fashion Revolution Consumer Survey Report 2018, a significant percentage of respondents prioritize buying clothes made by workers paid a fair, living wage over other factors such as environmental protection, safe working conditions, and animal welfare. Moreover, findings from an IPSOS Mori Sustainable Fashion Survey 2018 reveal that three in five consumers are willing to pay more for clothing to ensure workers receive a living wage.
Given this growing public interest in social responsibility, incorporating Fairtrade cotton into products aligns with consumer values and demonstrates a brand's commitment to ethical practices. Fairtrade, designed to benefit people, provides a straightforward way to communicate to customers that a brand prioritizes the welfare of workers. The Fairtrade system operates through standards, certification, and a consumer-facing Mark, connecting disadvantaged farmers and workers with consumers while promoting fairer trading conditions. This empowers farmers and workers to combat poverty, strengthen their positions, and take control of their lives.
To produce Fairtrade-certified cotton products carrying the Fairtrade Cotton Mark, businesses must follow three stages: sourcing cotton from Fairtrade-certified farming groups, ensuring adherence to Fairtrade standards and fair pricing; engaging certified Trader or Processor/Manufacturers for processing and manufacturing, meeting specific criteria to ensure compliance with Fairtrade standards and International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions; and obtaining a license from the national Fairtrade organization to use the Mark.
6 Fairtrade Certified Cotton Clothing Manufacturers
1. Continental Clothing
Since 1994, Continental Clothing Co. has offered Fairtrade-certified cotton T-shirts, sweatshirts, childrenswear, and accessories. Their Fair Share range includes blank T-shirts and hoodies, with a price premium directly benefiting garment workers in India.
2. Fusion
Located in Mumbai, Fusion focuses on organic and Fairtrade cotton knitted basics for men, women, and children. With over 25 years of experience, they supply fair trade fashion brands in Europe, the USA, Canada, and Australia.
3. Mila Clothing
A German-Indian manufacturer based in Tamil Nadu, Mila Clothing produces knits and woven items from Fairtrade and GOTS-certified organic cotton. They cater to various clients including the Germany Football Association and fashion brands across Europe, UK, USA, Australia, Hong Kong, and New Zealand.
4. Reflect Studio:
Operating from Rotterdam and Istanbul, Reflect Studio specializes in Fairtrade-certified cotton merchandise and promotional goods. They collaborate with educational institutions, arts and culture organizations, NGOs, and companies.
5. Rajlakshmi Cotton Mills:
Based in Kolkata, India, Rajlakshmi is a vertically integrated manufacturer offering Fairtrade organic knitted and woven fabrics. With dyeing and printing facilities, they supply a wide range of soft wovens and knits to global markets.
6. Dibella India
Founded by Sreeranga Rajan, formerly of the Fairtrade Foundation, Dibella India specializes in woven fabrics sourced from Fairtrade organic cotton. Their commitment to research and development ensures high-quality textiles, earning them customers across Europe.