World Fair Trade Day

The 2nd Saturday of May is World Fair Trade Day - the day when the whole world rethinks the main principles of fair trade in a philosophical and practical way. Manufacturers and merchants from different countries hold thematic business meetings, exhibitions and conferences. The noble “mission” of the holiday is to promote the principles of fair trade and honest business in accordance with international regulations. The main topics of condemnation are child labor, slave bondage, inflated prices and disruption of production ecosystems. Since ancient times, trade has been associated with fraud and deception. It is no coincidence that the patron saint of merchants, Mercury, wore winged sandals in order to quickly hide in case of emergency. He was an ardent champion of swindlers and thieves. It just so happens that the very concept of fair trade has an irrational meaning. However, in 1940, the beginning of the commercialization of goods from the “fair chain” was laid. The 10 Thousand Villages organization began supplying handmade goods (jute products, embroidery on textiles) to developing countries. The product was more of a symbol confirming the donation. In the 60s, hippies were “ostracized” by powerful monopoly companies. They opposed hard work in factories and farms. The first store where ethical goods were presented appeared in Britain. The alternative trade store operated on the principle of “we help by selling.” On the counters were dolls, tom-toms, masks and other handicrafts. The shop gained popularity, and similar stores began to open in other European countries. In the 1980s, a new social movement called fair trade emerged. All products became subject to mandatory certification and labeling. A common motto was coined: “Fair trade is not aid.” The Fairtrade label is evidence that environmentally friendly raw materials were used in the production of the product, no chemicals were released into the soil, working conditions complied with international standards, and child labor was not involved. Products with a “fair label” are often more expensive than their analogues, but many consumers consciously prefer this category of products. Labeling allows you to track the entire commodity chain, from the origin of the product, production, delivery, to the act of purchase. Fair trade principles: • creating conditions for small and unprofitable companies to enter the market; • absolute business transparency and a simple participation algorithm; • fair price according to location, which covers the built-in cost and development costs; • equality of men and women in the status of participants in the movement; • humane working conditions. The main group of goods are export products from third world countries. The register of products includes: bananas, coffee, tea, honey, oranges, cocoa, fruits, vegetables, spices, nuts, wine, etc. Manufacturing companies that adhere to fair trade laws label their products with a single sign. Manufacturer consolidation advocates for labor, ethical, social and environmental regulatory standards. The organizer of the movement is the World Fair Trade Organization.