Fair trade is all about empowerment - empowering the farmers, craftsmen and women of third world countries to learn and advance with their skills and be successful in their trade. Fair trade highlights the importance of strengthening our global trading systems in order to ensure these workers receive fair conditions and support, and are paid equitable and encouraging prices. This is important in order to improve self-reliance and eliminate exploitation, in particular that of children.

Child labour is the most fundamental issue when discussing fair trade. Poverty intensifies the need for both families and individuals to participate in the use of child labour. Furthermore, child vulnerability is magnified in certain third world countries where children are too commonly kidnapped, abused and forced to work. Paying fair prices for products sourced from fair trade producers is vital in encouraging the eradication of child labour.

Fair trading often allows for partial pre-payments to producers, with many companies also offering business loans to small producers. Both options encourage cash flow and improved production and distribution of goods and finances. The Fair Trade Store consciously meets producers and suppliers requests of upfront and prompt payments.

Through promoting and participating in fair trade as a producer, supplier, and particularly a consumer, we encourage conscious consumerism globally, and endeavor to build strong sustainable communities for those that need a helping hand.

Visit the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand for more information.