Velvet Elephant

fair trade gifts

Many farmers, artisans and producers in developing countries find challenges when providing for themselves and their families. Poor market access and trade rules often mean that the price they get for their crop or handcraft does not cover the cost of production, much less other basic necessities such as food, clothing, education and medical expenses.

Fair Trade is a rapidly growing international movement which seeks to guarantee a better deal for farmers, artisans and producers in the developing world. It works to establish an equitable and fair business partnership between companies in North America and producers in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe and other parts of the world. A Fair Trade partnership provides low-income artisans and farmers with a living wage for their work.

Fair Trade Federation (FTF) criteria are:
• Paying a fair wage in the local context.
• Offering employees opportunities for advancement.
• Providing equal employment opportunities for all people, particularly the most disadvantaged.
• Engaging in environmentally sustainable practices.
• Being open to public accountability.
• Building long-term trade relationships.
• Providing healthy and safe working conditions within the local context.
• Providing financial and technical assistance to producers whenever possible.

Find out more by visiting the following online resources:
http://www.fairtradefederation.org
http://www.fairtraderesource.org
http://www.transfairusa.org