Resources

Trade generates significant revenue, yet many people in poorer nations are losing out. Organisations such as Oxfam campaign to bridge the divide between rich and poor.

Oxfam’s Trade campaign presses governments for Fair Trade rules to protect both the producer and purchaser – in a fight against poverty.

Famers and workers in 58 developing countries benefit from Fair Trade. Consumers are presented with buying opportunities which support ethical principles. Fair Trade rewards and encourages environmentally friendly farming practises.

Many brand names exclusively target Fair Trade consumer. Fair Trade generates a stable income for both the producer and reseller (wholesaler and retailer).
Fair trade is relatively easy to start because it’s low cost. The core objective of Fair Trade is to provide a fair wage to third world famers and producers. The value of the fair wage is calculated based on the standard prices in the workers region.

A fair wage for the average coffee plantation worker is approximately double the price for each bag of coffee. It works out at an extra 1p per cup of coffee to the consumer – which some see as a little suspect.

Fair Trade has changed agricultural techniques and improved the quality of produce exports, as well as building stable local communities in poor parts of the world. Workers benefit from a fair wage and good working conditions. Some workers even belong to trade unions.