"Fair Trade is 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. Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."
In simpler terms, Fairtrade is a system that does not undermine third world communities, Fairtrade certified products are bought from co-operatives in the Third-world for a fair, sustainable price. This system ensures that the farmers can stay in business, produce high quality products and improve their quality of life. In addition to paying a higher price for Fairtrade products, 2% of the profits from selling them are returned to the co-operative that they came from. This additional profit goes into improving the infrastructure of the community.
It is important to note that Fairtrade is not a charity, it is a non-exploitative system for buying products at fair price from some of the most disadvantaged people in the world, and in doing so helping them to feed and educate their families.
Fairtrade is not only an adherence to fair prices, but also to proper working conditions, which must be safe and healthy. Both men and women are employed on an equitable basis, and no form of child labour or exploitation is permitted.
At BioBean Coffee, we fully support the Fairtrade system and only process coffee that is both Fairtrade certified and organically produced.
For more information on Fairtrade coffee and the Fairtrade concept, please visit the following links:
