subject: Fair Trade - What Does it Mean [print this page] Fair Trade - What Does it Mean
Fair trade can be described as a certification and global social action that advocates for fair wages, sustainable development and community. Products that work can be textiles,
premium agricultural commodities or handicrafts. Popular types of products that are used, include tea, honey, coffee, spices, wine, sugar and cocoa. Having a product that is certified means that prices are fair for the people that make the product.
The fair trade movement began in the early 60s in Europe. This was perceived as an economical and political alternative to the normal practices made in international trading. In 1965, began the first Alternative Trading Organization and soon many followed. Products were brought in public places, "World shops," homes and churches. Coffee, tea replaced handicraft products in this market at the turn of the century. The certification resources helped in the increase of the market.
There are several principles that need to be in place before an item is certified to be fairly traded. There must be a fair price for the producers and they must have a safe working environment. Women who work for these procedures must be treated properly and valued and must also be rewarded and children that are forced to work is not allowed. A union can be formed by workers if the wish to. Goods that are fairly traded should create equal opportunities for isolated groups, and show full responsibility and motivate the independence of the producers. It is intended by fair trade to advertise community development, producer empowerment and environmental consideration.
What is included in Environmental standards are using lack of pesticides, good soil use, and using the water sparingly. The resource must be properly managed. Crops that that are genetically modified are not able to be certified. These products that are made in this environment doesn't fall under the principles that are used while trading in the Fair Trade market. As promoting environmental consideration is one of their priorities
A fair price is set for the product by international Fair Trade Labeling Organization. The price needs to cover the wage of the maker as well as the cost of production. All retailers and importers are screened to be certified to make sure the fair base price is being paid properly. The non certified and crafts products will be sold to the Fair Trade Federation members, while wages are paid in the local affairs.
The products through fair trade are identified by labels they are either the: Fair Trade Certified Mark (this is used for the Canada or United States), or the International Fair trade Certification Mark (this is used internationally). There are other certifications and labels but these are the ones that are most used.
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