Fair Trade

Michelle Fank
Oct 25, 2019
2 min read

What is Fair Trade?

I've heard this term thrown around kind of like organic and have wondered, what does it really mean? Can anyone just use the term or is there some type of standard? There are multiple organizations that offer some type of certification but today i'm focusing on Fair Trade Certified.

The Fair Trade USA Network was founded in 1998 by Paul Rice after an 11 year stay in Nicaragua. He started by recruiting 24 coffee farmers and agreed to sell their coffee on fair trade terms. After one season the farmers were able to have a dramatically higher income which enabled them to afford basic things like electricity and running water. The number of farmers grew to more than 3,000 when Paul returned to the states to found Fair Trade USA.

Fair Trade is a network of global producers, companies, shoppers and organizations who put people and the planet first. They believe that everyone wants to do what is right for their families and the planet. They are committed to have the products they buy and sell to empower farmers, workers and fishermen and protect the environment.

Earnings should fulfill basic household needs regardless of market price.
Rigorous standards give workers a voice in the workplace and community.
Fair trade funds can be invested into things such as clean water, education and health care
Environmental practices keep the planet healthy for generations to come by prohibiting harmful chemicals and protecting natural resources.

Impact of Fair Trade

Last year Fair Trade USA empowered more than 950,000 farmers and workers in 45 countries across Africa, Asia, Oceania, Latin America and the Caribbean to reach better terms with trading partners
Since 1998 producers have earned a total financial benefit of $610 million through sales of Fair Trade Certified Products.
Over 700 Social, economic and environmental protections protect farmers workers, fishermen and the environment.
1,250 + businesses are dedicated to Fair Trade USA standards

Fair Trade Brands

Here is a highlight of just SOME of the Fair Trade Certified companies and items. Some have a small assortment of items while working toward a full fair trade brand and some operate fully compliant with the standards. Be sure to look for the fair trade certified logo on the packaging. There is a full listing of companies and products on the website.