Introduction To Fair Trade and the
Fair Trade Federation
Fair Trade Federationwww.FairTradeFederation.org
2
What is Fair Trade?
A trading partnership based on:• dialogue, • transparency, and • respect that seeks greater equity in international trade.
It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to - and securing the rights of - marginalized producers and workers - especially in the South.
-FINE Network (Fairtrade Labelling Organizations, International Fair Trade Association, Network of European Shops, European Fair Trade Association), 1998
3
How?
Fair Trade Federation Principles1. Creating Opportunities for Economically and Socially
Marginalized Producers2. Developing Transparent and Accountable
Relationships3. Building Capacity4. Promoting Fair Trade5. Paying Promptly and Fairly6. Supporting Safe and Empowering Working Conditions7. Ensuring the Rights of Children8. Cultivating Environmental Stewardship9. Respecting Cultural Identity
4
Who is involved?
Business Screening Product Certification
5
What is available?
6
Why Choose Fair Trade?
• Hands on for High-Quality• Cultivated Creativity• Trend Balanced with Authenticity• Support the poorest of the poor• Create Spillover Effects in Health, Education• Great Story
Empowerment - Not Charity• A Smart Business Decision
Growth of 102%+ from 2004-2007
77
Levels of Commitment?
Conventional Companies
• Maximize Profit for Shareholders
• Range from 0% - 50% Fair Trade sourcing
• Rarely Discuss Sourcing• Frequently Change
Suppliers • Race to the Bottom of
Standards and Expectations• Unsustainable Practices for
other Products
Federation Members
• Maximize Impact for Marginalized Communities• Dedicated to Fair Trade•Tell Artisans’ and Farmers’ Stories• Cultivate Long-term Relationships • Aim for the Highest Standards• Holistic Approach to Business and Development
88
Similar Marketing, Different Impact
Conventional
"Gemadro workers and their families enjoy access to clean water, health care, housing and schools, all in keeping with the estate's commitment to maintain the highest standards of social and environmental stewardship.”
Source: Starbucks.com
Fully Committed
“Equal Exchange works with more than 32
small farmer organizations in 18
developing countries. Our trading partners
are small farmer cooperatives -
businesses owned and governed
democratically by the farmers themselves.”
Source: EqualExchange.coop
9
What can the Fair Trade Federation do for you?
• Rigorous Evaluation of Companies• Searchable Member Directory
www.FairTradeFederation.org/members
• Educational Tools and Resources• Trade and Gift Show Locators• Specialized Recommendations• Email Lists for Buyers, the Public
1010
What can you do?
• Choose Fair Trade online and ask for it in your favorite stores
• Volunteer / Work in the US and abroad• Fundraise for your Student Group,
Faith Community, or Local Organization
• Celebrate Fair Trade Day in May and Fair Trade Month in October!
11
More Information
• Fair Trade Federation Phone: 202-636-3547 Fax: 202-636-3549 Address: 1718 M Street, NW, #381,
Washington DC 20036 www.FairTradeFederation.org [email protected] Facebook; Twitter: @FTFederation