Abstract:

This study aims to analyze the relationship between fair trade and sustainable development in credit and savings unions (UNICAs) in Cajamarca, Peru, during 2025. The research follows a quantitative approach with a non-experimental and correlational design, applying structured surveys to UNICA members to collect objective and comparable data. The findings reveal that fair trade practices significantly influence the economic, social, and environmental strengthening of these community-based organizations, contributing to rural financial inclusion and collective empowerment. Furthermore, the implementation of principles such as equity, transparency, and social responsibility enhances institutional resilience and regional competitiveness in both national and international markets. Therefore, the study concludes that fair trade represents a key strategy to foster sustainable development in rural contexts, consolidating UNICAs as agents of change in the Cajamarca region.