Fair trade is not about charity. It is a holistic approach to trade and development that aims to alter the ways in which commerce is conducted, so that trade can empower the poorest of the poor. Fair Trade Organizations seek to create sustainable and positive change in developing and developed countries.
What is Fair Trade?
Fair trade is a system of exchange that seeks to create greater equity and partnership in the international trading system by
Providing fair wages in the local context,
Supporting safe, healthy, and participatory workplaces,
Supplying financial and technical support to build capacity,
Promoting environmental sustainability,
Respecting cultural identity,
Offering public accountability and transparency,
Building direct and long-term relationships, and
Educating consumers.
FTF members foster partnerships with producers, because they know these connections are a highly effective way to help producers help themselves.
