Fair Trade isn't just about paying a decent price for a product to ensure the people involved in the making earn a fair wage. It's a global initiative and social movement, consisting of development organizations, campaign groups and businesses, all working to end exploitation and overcome poverty through trade. The initiative includes both the farmers who grow raw commodities and the artisan producers who create finished products; providing long-term contracts and incomes and a support network for developing businesses.
One of Bibico's producers in a women's cooperative in Mumbai
Here's the 'Fair Trade' definition we go by:
"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, marginalised producers and workers - especially in the South.
Fair Trade organisations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting Fair Trade Clothing producers, raising awareness and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."
This comes from FINE, an alliance made up of the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation (FLO), the International Fair Trade Association (IFAT, now the World Fair Trade Organization), the Network of European Worldshops (NEWS) and the European Fair Trade Association (EFTA). At Adili, we think all trade should be fair, but we know it’s not a walk in the park. Currently, it takes a considerable amount of time to achieve official certification or accreditation. So, after due diligence, we recognise brands that are working towards the FINE definition of Fair Trade and label these products 'fairly traded'.
By purchasing fairly traded products you’re supporting the movement.