In 1949, members of the fur trade formed the International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF), bringing together national associations from all parts of the world.

With 39 member organisations in 32 countries, IFTF includes practically every important fur producing and consuming country.

It draws together people from across the full spectrum of the trade: farmers; trappers; auction houses; merchants; brokers; dressers and dyers; manufacturers; wholesalers; marketing organisations and retailers.

Though its work, and the activities of members, IFTF seeks to protect fur trade interests and promote innovation, high standards and a positive factual image of fur and the fur industry worldwide.

Its work falls into the following main areas:
Forum: IFTF provides an international forum for discussions and resolution of fur trade issues and concerns. 
Promotion: one of IFTF's key roles is to support and promote the use of fur by the fashion industry. 
Media: IFTF, directly and through its members, serves as a media resource on fur fashion and the fur industry. 
Representation: IFTF represents the interests of the international fur industry with government and official bodies and with the European Community institutions. 
Education: IFTF is an education resource on wildlife, conservation, fashion and fur industry matters. 
Fur animal welfare: IFTF is committed to high standards of care and welfare for fur animals and supports scientific research in this area. 
Conservation: IFTF is committed to the conservation of fur animals and their habitat and works in co-operation with international conservation bodies. 
Member support: IFTF works closely with its members to support and amplify the work carried out at national level.

IFTF organisational structure
The Federation is governed by a Council, formed of up to three delegates from each member country plus auction house representatives.

An Executive Board is elected every two years, along with four nominated representatives from the largest auction houses. The Board elects the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Treasurer. IFTF's secretariat is based in the UK, under an Executive Director.