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Fair trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency
and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It
contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading
conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers
and workers. Fair Trade organizations
(backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers,
raising awareness and in campaigning for changes in the rules and
practice of conventional international trade.
Fair trade gurantees the following principles and
practices are present in trading relationships:
Creating opportunities for disadvantaged producers
Fair trade is a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable
development. Its purpose is to create opportunities for producers
who have been economically disadvantaged or marginalized by the
conventional trading system.
Transparency and accountability
Fair trade involves transparent management and commercial relations
to deal fairly and respectfully with trading partners.
Environment
Fair trade actively encourages better environmental practices and
the application of responsible and sustainable methods of production.
Capacity building
Fair trade is a means to develop producers’ independence. Fair trade
relationships provide continuity, during which producers and their
marketing organizations can improve their management skills and
their access to new markets.
Payment of a fair price
A fair price in the regional or local context is one that has been
agreed through dialogue and participation. It covers not only the
costs of production but enables production which is socially just
and environmentally sound. It provides fair pay to the producers
and takes into account the principle of equal pay for equal work
by women and men. Fairtraders ensure prompt payment to their partners
and, whenever possible, help producers with access to pre-harvest
or pre-production financing.
Gender equity
Fair trade means that women’s work is properly valued and rewarded.
Women are always paid for their contribution to the production
process and are empowered in their organizations.
Working conditions
Fair trade means a safe and healthy working environment for producers.
The participation of children (if any) does not adversely affect
their well-being, security, educational requirements and need for
play and conforms to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
as well as the law and norms in the local context.
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