Label STEP logo

    Label STEP

    Max Havelaar Foundation (Switzerland)

    Fair trade certification for handmade carpet importers and retailers

    For Products
    Social
    Workers
    Environmental
    Women

    Key Strengths

    • Industry-specific fair trade standard tailored to the handmade carpet sector
    • Covers entire company product offering, not just individual items
    • Addresses fair wages, child labor elimination, and environmental practices
    • Non-profit governance model with mission-driven oversight
    • Recognized across multiple key carpet-importing markets in Europe and North America
    • Supports weaver empowerment programs beyond basic compliance

    Ideal For

    Label STEP is best suited for carpet importers, wholesalers, and retailers who source handmade rugs from countries like Nepal, India, Pakistan, or Afghanistan and want to demonstrate a credible, independently verified commitment to fair trade. It is particularly valuable for businesses operating in European and North American markets where ethical sourcing is increasingly demanded by consumers and procurement teams. Companies seeking to differentiate their brand through social responsibility and supply chain transparency will find this label most relevant.

    Target Audiences

    Retail
    Supply Chain
    Businesses

    Industries

    Manufacturing

    Alignment & Recognition

    Accrediting Body

    Max Havelaar Foundation (Switzerland)

    Product Categories

    Values/Processes
    Alignment with External Standard

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Quick Facts

    Type

    Certification

    Regions
    Austria
    Canada
    France
    Germany
    Switzerland
    United Kingdom
    Languages

    English, German

    Established

    1995

    How to Use This Label

    Public Seal/Badge
    Online Registry
    Marketing Toolkit

    Sources & Citations

    Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.

    Program WebsiteMax Havelaar Foundation (Switzerland)

    Last verified Mar 11, 2026