Trade Aid is made up of a number of parts. It is somewhat complicated in its structure which is a reflection of the various works it undertakes as a Development Agency, Importer and Distributor, and Retailer.

The Movement gets together with an Annual Conference. The focus is education and every alternate year we invite a Producer Partner to attend.

Trade Aid (NZ) Inc.

Trade Aid (NZ) Inc. is a membership based Incorporated Society. Membership is open to individuals and as well Shop Trusts are members.

It has Charitable Status and is the owner of Trade Aid Importers. The Trustees of the Society are elected at Conference and are responsible for ensuring the Movement meets the Vision, Aims and Objectives as set out in the Trade Aid Movement Charter.

Trade Aid Shop Trusts

Each Trade Aid Shop is owned by a charitable trust. Trust members are elected annually and made up of local people with an interest in fair trade.

Trade Aid Importers Ltd

Trade Aid Importers Ltd. (TAI) is a Limited Liability Company, wholly owned by Trade Aid (NZ) Inc., and has Charitable Status. It is responsible for forming trading partnerships with our suppliers, importing of product, distribution to shops, producing education and marketing material, and campaigning and advocating for trade justice. It also carries out accounting and HR services for shops.

TAI is run by a Board of Directors who are appointed by, and answerable to, the Trustees of Trade Aid (NZ) Inc. They are responsible for the commercial management of TAI and to give advice and assistance to Shop Trusts. The Board appoints a General Manager who manages Trade Aid Importers and who also has a role in directing the commercial management of the shops.     

Development Committee

The Development Committee reports to the Board of TAI and is responsible for a number of tasks. It deals with selecting and monitoring trading partners, allocating NZAID funds for capacity building projects, approving education and advocacy work, formulating policy, approving suppliers of non fair trade goods (eg books, music), and has responsibility for producing Trade Aid's Social Accounts.  

Ethical Investment Trust

The Ethical Investment Trust was established as a vehicle to raise funds to support the activities of Trade Aid. Depositors are able to choose the term and rate of interest (often zero) for their investment. For the ethically minded investor the Trust offers a practical way to support fair trade and our producer groups.