The Fair Trade movement is attempting to use consumer power to tackle poverty in developing countries. It ensures producers are paid a 'fair' or 'living' wage and enables them to develop a degree of control over their circumstances. Its benefits include:

  • Regular income for producers
  • Reliable and adequate pay for workers
  • Safe and healthy working conditions
  • Improved living conditions
  • Increased sustainability of production

There has been criticism of Fair Trade, suggesting that too many of the extra pennies paid by consumers end up in the hands of middle men and that it does not always guarantee individuals get a fair price. There is also an argument that Fair Trade is just another market intervention, rather than a solution to global poverty.This is not easy to answer but it can be said that, in principle, the Fair Trade accreditation scheme and all it stands for is a worthwhile investment in people and the environment. Furthermore, Fair Trade exists as a result of a global inequality in economies and skewed international trade rules that favour developed nations. The scheme is designed as an interim measure to try and protect those most affected by the current situation and not as a finite solution. It is the hope that there will be a time when Fair Trade is not needed. In the meantime however, buying Fair Trade products is one way to ensure your cup of coffee does not leave a bitter after-taste elsewhere in the world.

As with organic, Fair Trade no longer applies just to food. Foreign garment workers, for example, are amongst the most exploited groups of workers.

The Fairtrade Foundation is a charity that registers products as Fairtrade as well as aiming to promote and enhance the understanding of the Fairtrade Mark. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 020 7405 5942.

Traidcraft is a combination of a trading company and a development charity. If you cannot find the fair trade items you need in your local health food store or wish to raise awareness of trade issues in your locality then Traidcrafts? online shop and campaign resources will be ideal. You can also find out how to become a Fair Trader.Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0870 443 1019.

Labour Behind the Label is a campaign that supports garment workers' efforts to improve their working conditions. They aim to educate consumers and lobby companies and government and are responsible for the Let's Clean Up Fashion report into the UK high street. Find out more about the campaign and find out how your favourite retailer faired on the website, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01603 666160.