Understanding Fair Trade
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| Fair Trade Artisans in Guatemala |
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Fair Trade involves the following principles:
- Producers receive a fair price - a living wage. For commodities, farmers receive a stable, minimum price.
- Forced labor and exploitative child labor are not allowed
- Buyers and producers trade under direct long-term relationships
- Producers have access to financial and technical assistance
- Sustainable production techniques are encouraged
- Working conditions are healthy and safe
- Equal employment opportunities are provided for all
- All aspects of trade and production are open to public accountability
In today's world economy, where profits rule and small-scale producers are left out of the bargaining process, farmers, craft producers, and other workers are often left without resources or hope for their future. Fair Trade helps exploited producers escape from this cycle and gives them a way to maintain their traditional lifestyles with dignity.
The Fair Trade system benefits over 800,000 farmers organized into cooperatives and unions in 48 countries. Fair Trade has helped farmers provide for their families' basic needs and invest in community development; however, these farmers are still selling most of their crop outside of the Fair Trade system because not enough companies are buying at Fair Trade prices. Help increase the demand for Fair Trade among companies, retailers, and consumers! Your support of Fair Trade certified products makes a real difference for small-scale producers!
In the USA, TransFair USA places the "Fair Trade Certified" label on Fair Trade Products. Fair Trade Certification ensures that workers are paid fair wages, are free from abusive labor practices, and use environmentally sustainable methods.
Resources from our Fair Trade Coffee Campaign