Canaan Soap Factory
Nablus
Canaan Soap Factory in Nablus is renowned for its production of natural olive oil soaps, crafted using virgin olive oil and traditional methods that emphasize quality and sustainability. The factory is part of the broader Canaan Fair Trade initiative, which supports over 1,700 farmers in the West Bank by promoting organic and fair trade agricultural products. Their soaps are enriched with natural ingredients like lavender fragrance, ensuring skin nourishment and smoothness. As a significant player in the fair trade movement, Canaan Soap Factory not only produces soap but also contributes to community development, including educational scholarships for farmers' children. The factory serves both as a production site and a tourist attraction, offering visitors insight into the soap-making process and access to a boutique selling fair trade products. This combination of cultural heritage, sustainable agriculture, and artisanal craftsmanship makes the factory a unique destination in Nablus.
Plan your trip to Bethlehem with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are encouraged to visit during weekdays to fully experience guided tours and the boutique. Purchasing products directly from the factory supports local farmers and fair trade practices. Booking tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts or special offers may be available for group visits or educational tours.
Interesting facts
- •Canaan Fair Trade supplies 90% of the organic olive oil used by the U.S. company Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps.
- •The factory combines production with tourism, offering guided tours and a boutique selling fair trade products.
- •Canaan Fair Trade awards full-tuition scholarships annually to children of its farmers for West Bank universities.
History
Canaan Fair Trade was founded in 2004 by Palestinian-American Nasser Abufarha to support West Bank farmers through organic and fair trade initiatives.
In 2008, the organization began constructing a factory and processing facility near Burqin, designed to serve as both headquarters and a tourist attraction.
Over time, the factory expanded its offerings to include natural olive oil soap production, integrating traditional methods with modern fair trade standards.
The initiative has grown to represent over 1,700 farmers organized in cooperatives, significantly impacting the regional economy and social development.
Place Guide
Soap Production Area
This area showcases the traditional and modern techniques used to produce natural olive oil soap, highlighting the use of virgin olive oil and natural fragrances like lavender.
Visitor Boutique
A shop where visitors can purchase a variety of fair trade products, including different types of natural soaps made on-site, supporting local farmers and artisans.
Contact
Phone: 09 237 0065