Why fair trade?

Why Fair trade?

A bad year for a coffee business in Aotearoa might mean no pay increase but for coffee farmers it means losing the basics of life. Coffee, sugar and other food prices have been falling below production costs so adopting fair trade principles is essential if we want to maintain a viable future supply (Peoples’ Coffee 2014). Fair trade means not only paying a fair price but also aiding the business planning and development.

Fairtrade Labelling Organisations (FLO) and the World Fair Trade Organisation offer labeling and accreditation that demonstrates principles including democratic organisation of production, unrestricted access to free trade unions, no child labour, decent working conditions, a price that covers the cost of production, long-term relationships, a social premium to improve conditions and ennvironmental sustainability. Fair trade Australia and New Zealand adopts the internationally recognised logo and social enterprises like Trade Aid are accredited by the WFTO Guarantee system.

Just a selection of fair trade products available in New Zealand have been included in the first publishing of images for fair trade fortnight from 6 – 18th May 2016. This is an on-going project and more products from more ethical suppliers may be featured going forward.

I’d like to thank Wellington Chocolate Factory, Commonsense Organics and Fair Trade City Wellington and Trade Aid for their support in this project.

FairTradeMade.Co – inspiring ethical food choices!

Please send any comments and suggestions to hello@fairtrademade.co