Mata Traders
Earrings, necklaces and dresses made by fair trade cooperatives in India and Nepal, from a Chicago brand started by three friends.
- Fair trade
- Member of Fair Trade Federation
- Made in
- India, Nepal
- Based in
- Chicago, Illinois
Vetted by The Labour Movement · last reviewed October 2026 · How we vet brands
Mata Traders works directly with fair trade cooperatives in India and Nepal to create good jobs, with fair pay, profit sharing and benefits.
The story
Three best friends, including Maureen Dunn, started Mata Traders in Chicago, where it's still based. Mata is the Hindi word for mother.
The brand works directly with five fair trade cooperatives in India and Nepal. Artisans are paid by the piece at a living wage that Mata Traders says is well above the local minimum, with profit sharing on top. The cooperatives offer health care, daycare, scholarships, paid maternity leave, retirement pensions, and literacy and computer classes.
Dunn visits the cooperatives each year. Mata Traders is a member of the Fair Trade Federation.
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Linear Stone Earrings - Amethyst
Regular price $28.00 USDRegular price -
Aster Beaded Necklace - Rosette
Beadwork
Regular price $24.00 USDRegular price
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About Mata Traders
Is Mata Traders fair trade?
Yes. Mata Traders is a member of the Fair Trade Federation, which screens whole businesses against nine fair trade principles before accepting them. The Labour Movement also vetted it before listing it, and we review every brand each year.
Who makes Mata Traders jewelry and clothing?
Artisans at five fair trade cooperatives in India and Nepal that Mata Traders works with directly. The pieces on The Labour Movement are made in India.
What does Mata mean?
It's the Hindi word for mother.