What is Fair Trade?

At Hip Mountain Mama we have filled our shop with many items carrying the label 'Fair Trade'. You may have heard this term before and had the thought that this was a good thing, but how many of us really know what Fair Trade is? Well I am here today to shed some light on what Fair Trade actually means.

Fair Trade is an organized social movement and market-based approach that aims to help producers in developing countries make better trading conditions and promote sustainability. The movement advocates the payment of a higher price to producers as well as social and environmental standards. It focuses in particular on exports from developing countries to developed countries.

So, basically, when you purchase something with the Fair Trade label you are helping people in some of the poorest communities on Earth. Fair Trade looks to create tremendous, positive, and long-term impact for artisans and farmers while delivering quality products to the public.

When consumers choose these high quality and affordable products from Fair Trade Organizations, children’s school fees are paid; nutritional needs met; health care costs are covered; the poor - especially women - are empowered; the environmental impact of production, sourcing, and transport is mitigated to the fullest extent possible; and, much more. Such an impact is created, because Fair Trade approaches development as a holistic process.

So, next time you see the label 'Fair Trade' you can feel good that the product was made by hard working people in other countries who are paid a fair wage and working in excellent conditions (often times working at home or with other groups of friends). You are helping to improve their quality of life and ensuring their families have more opportunities.

It is important that we understand that, as humans, we are all here on Earth together and everyone has the same needs and desires. Helping people in other countries by supporting Fair Trade is an excellent way to do your part in helping other communities thrive and grow. That being said, we also support USA made items and carry many of these in our shop, with the intent to grow. Whether purchasing Fair Trade or Made in the USA, supporting these small and hard working businesses is very important and a great way to help our economy.

"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other."
Mother Teresa

What is Fair Trade?