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Fair trade (also, sometimes referred to as alternative trade) is a trading partnership based on transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in international trade.
Fair trade focuses on building equitable trading relationships between consumers and the worlds most economically disadvantaged artisans and farmers.
Many people are exploited to produce product for the extremely competitive North American market. This means the lowest costs to produce the cheapest goods, making high profits at the expense of people. many times violating human rights and basic needs, forced labor, child labor and unsafe working conditions.
Fair trade encourages economic growth by dealing directly with artisan groups who produce top quality goods,share skills, acquire export knowledge and increase employment opportunity within their communities.
Fair trade buyers make a difference in the lives of people. Another benefit to fair trade is the knowledge that you are taking positive steps to transform the way trade is conducted;that what you are buying was made with care by artisans who enjoy using their skills. Your purchase helps someone, often several people live a decent and healthy life.
The Fair Trade Federation has principles specifically governing the trading relationships between producers and fair trade organizations or businesses.
These include:
- Producers of a product are paid a fair living wage
- Workplaces offer safe conditions and equal employment opportunities
- Business and farming practices are environmentally sustainable
- Fair Trade Federation members offer credit and payment upfront to producers
- Fair Trade Federation members are publicly accountable for their actions
- Long term relationships are maintained
Every individual is a citizen of the world and member of the global economy! Even as one individual, you can make a difference in the lives of many small-scale artisans and farmers currently living in poverty.
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