What is Fairtrade?
Fairtrade’s vision is a world in which all producers can enjoy secure, sustainable livelihoods,
fulfil their potential and decide on their future. It is a trade relationship looking for equity and
connecting disadvantaged producers and consumers. It allows producers to reach export
markets under fairer conditions, strengthen their position in international trade, gain
improved access to finance, and take part in capacity-building programs and generally take
more control over their lives. For workers on farms, it means primarily decent wages, the
right to join trade unions and overall better working conditions.
In order to be part of the Fairtrade system, traders and producers have to meet certain
criteria which are defined in the Fairtrade Standards set by Fairtrade International. A
certification body audits and grants certificates to producers and traders for complying with
this standard.