The Global Federation of Direct Selling Associations (GFDSA) is an international governing body established to support, unite, and empower regional and direct selling associations worldwide. GFDSA provides a globally recognized platform for collaboration, growth, and the ethical advancement of the direct selling industry.
Founded on inclusivity, integrity, and sustainability principles, GFDSA stands apart from traditional models by ensuring that every regional direct-selling association and domestic enterprises within each member country are given equal recognition, representation, and opportunities for global integration. This inclusive approach promotes a balanced, non-monopolistic ecosystem that nurtures local markets' development and protects all stakeholders' interests.
GFDSA champions the GFDSA World Code of Ethics, a universally adopted framework by all member countries designed to uphold the highest ethical business practices, consumer protection, and industry transparency standards. This living document is continuously reviewed and enhanced to align with evolving global regulations and marketplace expectations, reinforcing the federation’s commitment to responsible growth.
By fostering strategic partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, and global dialogues, GFDSA catalyzes harmonized development and sets a new benchmark for governance and leadership in the direct selling industry worldwide.
Established in 2019, the Global Federation of Direct Selling Associations (GFDSA) is a premier international organization representing the interests of the global direct-selling industry. As a unifying body for domestic Direct-Selling Associations worldwide, the GFDSA is committed to promoting ethical business practices, fostering transparency, and elevating the credibility and professionalism of the direct-selling sector on a global scale.
In collaborative efforts, the GFDSA plays a pivotal role in setting industry standards, advocating for fair policies, and driving sustainable growth. By championing integrity and innovation, the GFDSA empowers its members to navigate an evolving business landscape while maintaining professionalism and consumer trust.
GFDSA was founded in 2019 by four Country Direct Selling Associations: The Malaysian Direct Distribution Association (MDDA), the Federation of Direct Selling Association (FDSA) India, Asosiasi Perusahaan Penjualan Langsung Indonesia (AP2LI), and Taiwan Association of Multilevel Marketing, R.O.C. The Federation was set up to address various direct selling issues worldwide by allowing the sharing of information and strategies and the planning of standard practices.
All GFDSA member countries adopted the GFDSA World Code of Ethics for implementation in their respective industries. The Code is a cornerstone of the Direct Selling Industry's commitment to ethical business practices and consumer protection. It is regularly enhanced to meet the marketplace's demands.
Between 2020 and 2022, the global direct selling industry demonstrated resilience and adaptability amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, worldwide retail sales reached approximately $179.3 billion, reflecting a 2.3% increase from the previous year. This growth continued into 2021, with global sales peaking at nearly $186.1 billion. In 2022, the industry experienced a slight normalization, with sales totalling $172 billion, yet still surpassing pre-pandemic levels of $168.1 billion in 2019. In the United States, direct retail sales from salespeople escalated from $35.2 billion in 2019 to $40.1 billion in 2020, a 14% increase. This upward trend persisted, with sales reaching $42.7 billion in 2021 before adjusting to $40.5 billion in 2022. The health and wellness sector emerged as a significant contributor during this period, driven by consumers' heightened focus on personal well-being. The industry's flexible business model also attracted individuals seeking alternative income sources amid economic uncertainties, underscoring its capacity to adapt and thrive in evolving market conditions.
Direct selling is the oldest form of retail in the world. It refers to selling products directly to consumers away from permanent business premises. The recipe for success is trust in freedom and human relations.
The Global Federation of Direct Selling Associations (GFDSA) was officially established in 2019 as a visionary response to the evolving landscape of the global direct selling industry.
READ MORETo be the global catalyst for ethical, inclusive, and sustainable growth in the direct selling industry by empowering regional and domestic associations worldwide.
To unite and uplift regional and regional direct selling associations through strategic collaboration, ethical governance, and global recognition — creating a fair, transparent, and thriving ecosystem that benefits consumers, entrepreneurs, and communities across nations.
Advocacy Committee
Ethics Committee
Global Regulatory Committee
Governance & Finance Committee
READ MOREThe Global Federation of Direct Selling Associations (GFDSA) proudly represents and supports a diverse network of regional direct selling associations worldwide. As a global federation founded on the principles of inclusivity and empowerment, GFDSA recognizes all legitimate regional direct-selling associations, regardless of size or region, as vital contributors to the advancement of the direct-selling industry.
READ MORERecognize and support regional and domestic associations and companies as equal partners in global direct selling without monopolization.
Enforce the GFDSA World Code of Ethics across all member countries to ensure consumer protection, fair practices, and industry credibility.
Build meaningful alliances and partnerships between local, regional, and global stakeholders to advance innovation and best practices.
Facilitate growth and sustainability of domestic enterprises through access to global resources, recognition, and capacity-building initiatives.
Continuously enhance policies and frameworks in response to evolving industry challenges, technology, and global consumer expectations.