FINE CRITERIA

 

FINE: FAIR LABELLING ORGANISATIONS INTERNATIONAL (FLO)

           INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION FOR ALTERNATIVE TRADE (IFAT)

           NETWORK OF EUROPEAN WORLD SHOPS (NEWS!)

           EUROPEAN FAIR TRADE ASSOCIATION

 

The working group from these organisations has come up with a definition of Fair Trade, and guidelines which they have called “goals”.

 

Definition

Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, which 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 organisations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practices of conventional international trade.

 

 

Goals of Fair Trade

1. To improve the livelihoods and well being of producers by improving market access, strengthening producer organisations, paying a better price and providing continuity in the trading relationship.

 

2. To promote development opportunities for disadvantaged producers, especially women and indigenous people and to protect children from exploitation in the production process.

 

3. To raise awareness among consumers of the negative effects on producers of international trade so that they exercise their purchasing power positively.

 

4. To set an example of partnership in trade through dialogue, transparency and respect.

 

5. To campaign for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.

 

6. To protect human rights by promoting social justice, sound environmental practices and economic security.