Fair Trade Policy

SUMMARY

We are a small company guided by a strong ethical policy, rooted in the belief that sustainable trade is the most effective way to reduce poverty in the developing world. All Upahaar Box products are traded fairly. While we acknowledge we are not perfect, we are committed to honesty, transparency, and continuous improvement.

MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL LONG-TERM TRADE

We source from small-scale producers who primarily use traditional techniques to create unique, authentically beautiful products. We believe the most effective way to support disadvantaged producers is by building long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships rooted in fair and sustainable trade.

OUR COMMITMENT TO FAIR TRADE

We are committed to upholding the core principles of Fair Trade and regularly review our procedures and achievements to ensure they reflect these principles:

• Empowerment: We work with disadvantaged and marginalised producers, helping them build stronger, more independent businesses.
• Cultural Heritage: We focus on sourcing craft products that celebrate cultural heritage, reflect traditional techniques, and showcase the skills of each supplier.
• Ethical Sourcing: While our priority is small-scale producers, we are open to collaborating with larger suppliers who uphold Fair Trade principles. Many of these partners provide greater job security, improved facilities, and valuable benefits for their workers, while also supporting community and charitable initiatives.
• Fair Pricing: Pricing is always discussed openly and honestly. We strive to pay a fair price that reflects the true value of the product, supports successful sales, and enables workers to earn fair wages. We work to ensure that wages meet or exceed local standards and comply with national laws.
• No Child or Forced Labour: We are dedicated to ethical production. We take every measure to ensure that no child or forced labour is involved in the making of Upahaar products. In particular, we guarantee that no children under the age of 16 are engaged in factory-based production for Upahaar Box.
• Equality: Upahaar Box suppliers uphold principles of non-discrimination, gender equality, and freedom of association.

MONITORING AND IMPROVEMENT

We are in the process of structuring our business in line with formal Fair Trade values. Going forward, we will conduct supplier visits (directly or through agents) to ensure fair working conditions and require all suppliers to complete a comprehensive questionnaire on their Fair Trade practices.

We prioritise long-term partnerships, offering designs and ideas that support business growth and help maintain a steady flow of orders. By providing repeat business and advance payments, and by committing never to cancel or unfairly delay orders, we enable our suppliers to strengthen their capacity and achieve sustainable development.

SUSTAINABILITY

Work at Upahaar Box highlights and promotes Fair Trade principles across our activities and literature. Furthermore, our packaging increasingly uses sustainable, recycled, and environmentally conscious materials.

Note: This policy represents the core values and internal standards of Upahaar Box. While we strive to ensure our suppliers adhere to these principles, this document does not constitute a formal ‘Fair Trade Certification’ by a third-party regulatory body unless specifically stated on an individual product basis.