The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is an alliance of companies, unions and voluntary organisations committed to improving working conditions in supply chains. ETI audits inspect processes against the nine principles of the ETI Code and ensure compliance with relevant legislation. Adhering to ETI standards instills confidence in consumers that brands trade fairly and ethically. Ethical trade means taking responsibility for improving working conditions of those who make the products. The ETI Base Code is based on internationally agreed standards, focusing on labour practices, while the Principles of Implementation define the commitments, management practices and behaviours required for corporate members to implement the ETI Base Code.
What is the Ethical Trading Initiative?
The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is an organization that brings together companies, unions, and voluntary organizations to promote fair and ethical working conditions throughout the supply chain. The ETI Code outlines nine principles that companies must follow to uphold ethical standards, and an ETI audit assesses compliance with these principles and relevant national and international legislation.
Why is Ethical Trade important?
Ethical trade is crucial because it promotes fair working conditions for individuals involved in the production of goods. Retailers, brands, and suppliers have a responsibility to ensure that the people who make their products are treated fairly and with dignity. The ETI Base Code provides a framework for labor practices, which is based on internationally recognized standards.
What are the ETI Standards?
The ETI Standards include two parts: the ETI Base Code and the Principles of Implementation. The ETI Base Code outlines labor practices that companies must follow, such as the prohibition of forced labor, child labor, and discrimination in the workplace. The Principles of Implementation detail the commitments, management practices, and behaviors required for companies to implement the ETI Base Code in their supply chains.
What is the Purpose of the ETI?
The ETI is committed to promoting and implementing ethical trade practices. The organization works to incorporate internationally recognized standards into labor codes and encourages companies to engage in transparent and effective implementation of these codes. The goal is to improve working conditions in supply chains by providing a framework for companies to follow and ensuring that they comply with legal requirements.
What are the Benefits of ETI Standards?
Adhering to ETI standards benefits companies, workers, and consumers. By following ethical trade practices, companies demonstrate their commitment to improving working conditions and safeguarding worker rights. This, in turn, increases consumer trust and loyalty. Workers also benefit from ethical trade practices through better working conditions and fair treatment. In addition, the implementation of ETI Standards can help companies avoid reputational damage, legal action, and other negative consequences associated with non-compliance.
The final word
The Ethical Trading Initiative provides a framework for companies to follow in order to promote fair and ethical working conditions. By adhering to the ETI Base Code and Principles of Implementation, companies can demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices and avoid reputational harm. Consumers, workers, and companies all stand to benefit from the promotion and implementation of ethical trade practices.
