What is Fair Trade?

Fair Trade is a tool for reducing poverty in developing nations that allows consumers to make choices in support of ethical trade. It’s a form of trade that builds equitable and long-term partnerships between producers in developing regions of the world and consumers in the north.

Fair Trade certification and fairly traded relationships benefit everyone:

Producers

receive a minimum set price for their goods, financial and technical support, healthy and safe working conditions, economic development for their communities, and educational opportunities for their children.

Consumers

receive excellent products plus the peace of mind that comes with knowing that they are actively addressing poverty, preserving the environment, and promoting an end to child labor.

The planet

receives a chance at health and healing since Fair Trade actively promotes sustainable farming techniques, biodiversity, and bird and animal habitat preservation.

Why is Fair Trade Important?

Fair Trade Certified products alone positively impact the lives of the over one million Fair Trade farmers and their families, in 58 countries. Fair Trade raises the standard of living for these families and communities, offering comprehensive development of sustainable practices. It provides true change, and not charity.

Fairly traded products affect millions and millions of producers providing them with more resources and control over their lives. Support of Fair Trade lifts others up while respecting Mother Earth and her limits.

All of this positive change is as easy as reaching for Fair Trade Certified coffee at your grocery store and shopping from merchants who support Fair Trade practices. Learn about Fair Trade shops in Media.

Thanks for being Fair Traders!