Scotland’s Fair Trade Success: Nation Status Renewed
Scotland has successfully renewed its Fair Trade Nation status, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to fairness, social justice, and ethical trade despite the challenges of recent years.
First awarded in 2013, Scotland’s Fair Trade Nation status recognises the country’s deep commitment to promoting fair trading practices and supporting producers around the world. Despite global challenges -including the pandemic, the cost of living crisis, and the climate emergency – Scotland has successfully renewed its status, demonstrating the collective efforts of individuals, businesses, and communities across the nation.
To celebrate this achievement, Scotland is welcoming representatives from the Rwenzori Sustainable Trade Centre, a Fair Trade co-operative from Uganda. The Centre works with co-operatives producing cotton, cocoa, coffee, and crafts, including Fair Trade coffee and handwoven baskets that are sold in Scotland. During their visit, they will meet with students at New College Lanarkshire, who are leading the way as Fair Trade campaigners, and visit long time Fairtrade supporters, coffee roasters Matthew Algie coffee roasters in Glasgow, highlighting the meaningful connections between Scottish consumers and Fair Trade producers.
External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson MSP welcomed the renewal, stating:
“Scotland has been proud to be a Fair Trade Nation since 2013, and retaining this status reaffirms our commitment to fairness, social justice, and global solidarity.
“Congratulations to everyone who played a role in refreshing the criteria and ensuring that people of all ages across the country understand the merits of Fair Trade.
“Being a Fair Trade Nation is about more than just a title; it reflects our values as a country that champions ethical trade, supports producers in the Global South, and takes real action on poverty and inequality.
“As good global citizens, we remain dedicated to raising awareness, driving change, and ensuring Fair Trade remains at the heart of Scotland’s global outlook.”
Scotland’s Fair Trade Nation status serves as a reminder that trade can be a powerful force for good – when done fairly. The journey does not stop here, and continued action is needed to ensure Scotland remains a leader in ethical and sustainable trade.
Louise Davies, Chief Executive of Scottish Fair Trade, said:
“Scotland retaining its Fair Trade Nation status is a huge achievement and a testament to the dedication of people across the country. In the face of global challenges, we have continued to champion Fair Trade and ensure it remains embedded in Scottish society.
“However, we cannot be complacent. This renewed status is not the finish line – it’s a call to action. We need more individuals, businesses, and institutions to step up, make ethical choices, and drive change. Fair Trade is not just a label – it’s a model for a more just and sustainable economy, where people and planet come before profit.”
Ronald Higiro Clark from the Rwenzori Sustainable Trade Centre, said:
“I am delighted to celebrate Scotland’s Fair Trade Nation status with our friends in Scotland. We have been pleased to have a positive trading relationship with several Scottish businesses, and this has enabled communities in Uganda to thrive. We look forward to continuing our partnership, giving the people of Scotland high quality, ethical consumer choices.”
