Fair trade exists to give a chance to small farmers, artisans and workers around the world so they can also benefit from globalization.
While globalization has opened the doors for different countries to communicate, share ideas and engage in trade that should ultimately develop the world, in many situations it has also opened the door to exploitation. Many third world countries do not have the resources to compete equally with developed nations. In cases like these, the powerful corporations in these nations set up a factory, a plantation or a mine in the poor countries under the pretense that they will pay the workers a salary (which is better than no salary), pay taxes, and improve the local economy. Even though it is true that people in the poor countries want a job and opportunities, the ones offered by multinational corporations are far from ideal.
Fair traders hope to create a system where the artisans and farmers become independent and self-sustainable. That is why fair trade exists: to create justice, to empower people, to break the poverty cycle, and ultimately so everyone can produce and buy products that are healthy for the people and the planet.
Does my purchase make a difference?
Definitely. Every time you choose to purchase a fair trade item, you support a just and sustainable global economic system. Every purchase made is a step forward toward the eradication of global poverty.
Think of your purchasing power as a “vote”; you are voting in favor of a sustainable and respectful trading system, which fosters the creation of responsible businesses. At the same time, it pressures big corporations to adopt responsible business practices.
Does buying fair trade cost more than buying conventional products?
Not necessarily, because fair trade organizations work directly with producers, cutting out exploitative middlemen.
How do I identify fair trade products?
Look for information attached to the product that explains why it is fair trade. Also, see if the company that sells the product is a member of the Fair Trade Federation, or, in the case of agricultural products, if it has the TransFair USA “Fair Trade Certified” logo on it.
What is the difference between fair trade and free trade?
What we call “free trade” is the movement of goods between countries without government restrictions to improve efficiency. Unfortunately, this system has created a global “race to the bottom” as countries look to increase market share by lowering costs, wages, safety and environmental regulations, among other standards. Fair trade, on the other hand, is a “race to the top,” treating producers with respect, paying fair wages, fostering development, and upholding high environmental standards.
In the end, fair traders want to give disadvantaged producers and farmers an opportunity to participate in the world’s “free trade” environment.
Source: A Time for Karma metaphysical boutique, located at 14 S. Village Ave., Rockville Center. It carries a unique array of Handmade Expressions artisan fair trade products.
