San Antonio Where Fairness Isnt New

At Osvaldo Antonio Barrientos Valenzuela (San Antonio Internacional), a citrus operation growing oranges and lemons in Pichidegua, 170 kilometers southwest of Santiago, a culture of care was firmly established well before any certifications were pursued. The farm did not start prioritizing its people because of Fair Trade; rather, Fair Trade Certification validated a commitment that was already an integral part of how San Antonio operates. Fair Trade Certification serves to help farms like San Antonio, which are already genuinely dedicated to their workforce, stand out and continue their journey of improvement. This distinction is evident to those who work the land every day. As Francisco Hernandez, a field worker, explains, “I worked for 27 years on another 'fundo' (farm) but it is not the same as it is here. Here it’s very different. I think it’s the way they treat us.” For Francisco, this respectful treatment translated into vital support during a personal crisis. When his wife fell ill, the farm granted him a month and a half of paid leave so he could care for her. Reflecting on this exceptional support, he noted, “You get that nowhere.” This people-centered philosophy also extends to professional development and belief in individual potential. Catalina Galaz, who has grown significantly during her time at San Antonio, shares her personal evolution: “I came from a very modest background and never thought that I’d be able to study business administration. When I started at San Antonio, I felt the support, and I felt confident that I could do more.” Her story stands as a testament to a farm that not only employs workers but actively believes in them and invests in their future. In 2025, when San Antonio had its first Fair Trade Certification audit, the results confirmed this strong foundation. Out of 72 core requirements, only four minor non-conformities were found, all of which were addressed quickly. Even more impressively, out of the 50 progress requirements to be met over the first six years of certification, the farm was already meeting 90% of them. For farms like San Antonio, Fair Trade Certification is not a starting point, but a recognition of an ethical, people-centered way of working. Looking ahead to 2026, workers will begin managing their first year of Fair Trade Community Development Funds. They will decide democratically together how to invest these funds based on their own needs and priorities. We look forward to seeing the impactful choices they will make for themselves and their community.