About Fair Trade

Fair Trade is a movement to reduce poverty, create safe and equitable working conditions, and provide fair wages to disadvantaged producers around the world. Unlike traditional production and labor models, fair trade is based on dialogue, transparency, and respect between the people who create products and those who purchase and distribute them. Fair Trade guarantees many things including:

Fair Wages: Producers are paid a fair price for their goods and usually receive advance payment to cover supply costs.

Training & Support: Fair trade organizations provide professional development, training, and distribution channels for producers. In addition, they often provide access to medical treatment and education for artisans and their families.

Equitable, Safe, and Healthy Working Conditions: Fair trade groups provide safe and healthy working environments and do not discriminate based on gender, class, or health status. They comply, at a minimum, with national and local laws and International Labour Organization conventions on health and safety.

Ethical Products: Consumers receive excellent products plus the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are actively addressing poverty, preserving the environment, and promoting an end to child labor.

Sustainable Products: Fair trade actively promotes sustainable farming techniques, biodiversity, and bird and animal habitat preservation.