“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, marginalized producers and workers – especially in the South. Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.” (FINE definition of Fair Trade)
At Keiraview Uniting Church as part of our commitment to social justice we believe that producers in the Third World should receive a fair price for their product. Fairtrade also enables them to invest in their communities, gain knowledge and skills, and promotes environmentally sustainable farming methods. Look out for Fairtrade coffee, tea and chocolate at your local supermarket and buy it regularly. By buying Fairtrade products you can change the way that international trade works and you make a real difference to the lives of Third World farmers and communities.
For more information on:
- Fairtrade in Australia and New Zealand see www.fta.org.au
- Fairtrade labelling see http://www.fairtrade.net/