In this article, adherence to the principles of Fair Trade is seen as a promising alternative for small rural producers. More specifically, the intention is to understand the Fair trade certification process for the production of oranges in the northern part of Paraná. The results of the research carried out indicate that the main motivation for engaging producers in Fair Trade is related to the expectation of enjoyment of social benefits from entering the system. This is because the premium granted stimulates the improvement of the general living conditions of the producers and workers concerned. At the same time, it helps to ensure that farmers’ children stay in rural areas, thus limiting rural exodus. Research has also shown that economic and environmental aspects are seen as important but not central. Regular access to markets was mentioned by producers as an important economic result of this certification process – alongside the strengthening of practices better adapted to existing environmental standards and also the use of “good environmental practices” on properties. On the other hand, the research revealed that the most important difficulties relate to social adjustments, especially as regards the existence of cultural barriers and the management of working conditions of farmers. The bureaucratic monitoring of the certification process was not seen as a problem because it allowed better conditions for managing production processes. The authors conclude that this process has generated positive economic, social and environmental results in the region.