STEP has strengthened its commitment to fair trade and sustainability in Morocco’s handmade carpet industry by welcoming nine new STEP Certified Partners. This collaboration, in partnership with La Maison de l’Artisan, marks a significant milestone in STEP’s ongoing efforts to improve working conditions, enhance market access, and promote sustainable practices for Moroccan artisans.
A Growing Partnership for Morocco’s Carpet Industry
This initiative is part of a broader collaboration that began in 2022, aimed at supporting Morocco’s rich tradition of carpet weaving while ensuring ethical and sustainable practices. La Maison de l’Artisan, a government-run organization, plays a key role in fostering growth in Morocco’s craft sector, and through this partnership, artisans gain greater visibility in global markets while benefiting from improved labor conditions.
Applications for the 2025 program are now open until March 30, 2025. Interested artisans can apply through the La Maison de l’Artisan website.
About STEP
Founded in Switzerland in 1995, Label STEP is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to fair trade and worker welfare in the handmade carpet industry. The industry is complex, involving producers, exporters, and retailers worldwide, and STEP is the only non-governmental organization working across all major rug-producing regions to ensure ethical and sustainable production.
The STEP Fair Trade Standard
STEP’s 10-point fair trade standard is the most comprehensive framework in the handmade carpet sector, covering:
- Labour rights
- Health and safety regulations
- Social protections
- Environmental sustainability
STEP also supports artisans through workplace improvements and educational programs, focusing on health, safety, and financial literacy. These initiatives preserve artisanal skills and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the handmade carpet industry.
The Role of STEP Certified Fair Trade Partners
STEP’s network of Certified Fair Trade Partners—including importers, wholesalers, designers, and retailers—plays a crucial role in supporting the initiative. These partners uphold strict ethical sourcing standards and contribute to STEP’s mission through donations, royalty payments, and independent supply chain audits.
Only STEP Certified Fair Trade Partners can promote and sell carpets bearing the STEP Fair Trade Label, ensuring that consumers support fair wages, ethical labor practices, and sustainability when purchasing handmade rugs.
A Sustainable Future for Moroccan Weaving Communities
By expanding its presence in Morocco, STEP is reinforcing its dedication to empowering artisans and preserving traditional weaving techniques. This partnership not only enhances the global reach of Moroccan carpets but also guarantees that artisans receive fair compensation and work in dignified conditions.
With the 2025 program now accepting applications, STEP and La Maison de l’Artisan are paving the way for a more ethical, sustainable, and prosperous future for Morocco’s weaving communities.
