What is Fair Trade?
Fair Trade is a trading partnership that aims to conduct international trade under more equal conditions, based on dialogue, transparency and respect.
By offering better trading conditions and protecting the rights of vulnerable producers and workers, Fair Trade contributes to sustainable development.
What is Fairtrade University?
These are universities that have been certified for their commitment to promoting fair trade. The certification standards were established following the "Fair Trade Town University Movement" which began in the UK, and as of 2024, 268 universities worldwide have been certified. In Japan, based on the UK standards, the Fair Trade University Standards were completed in 2014, and the Japan Fair Trade Forum is the certification body.
Fair Trade University Certification Standards
- There is a student group that promotes fair trade.
- Fair trade outreach activities, as well as research and educational activities related to fair trade, are carried out both on and off campus.
- The university authorities purchase and use fair trade products.
- Several fair trade products are available for purchase on campus.
- The University has formulated the Fair Trade University Charter, which supports the ideals of fair trade and promotes its spread. The charter has been endorsed by three parties: the student association promoting fair trade, the student council (or a similar organization such as the alumni association), and the university authorities.
Fair Trade University Accreditation
On April 25, 2023, our university was certified as the fifth "Fair Trade University" in Japan. This recognition is due to our university's endorsement of the principles of fair trade, our efforts to promote and raise awareness of fair trade products together with our students, and our meeting of Japan's "Fair Trade University Standards."
In June 2026, the university received renewed certification as a Fair Trade University in recognition of its continuous and practical fair trade promotion activities, primarily led by the student group "CUC Ethical Student Club," as well as its university-wide efforts, including the use of fair trade cotton and banana paper in its cafeteria ingredients.
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