What is fair trade?

Fairtrade is a product certification system that certifies producers and goods, ensuring better conditions for poor producers and workers in developing countries. Fairtrade protects the earnings of the producer by guaranteeing a minimum price, which covers the cost of sustainable production. If the market price is above this floor, it is the market price that will be paid.

In addition, the producer receives a Fairtrade bonus, which must be invested in social, environmental or economic development projects, e.g. in support of children’s schooling. Fairtrade also certifies that the goods have been produced under decent working conditions without forced or child labour. It certifies that the producers are organised in democratic organisations, and that the production is environmentally sustainable.

The idea of fair trade is to create a link between idealistic consumers and poor producers. Thus, fair trade becomes a kind of development work which, in combination with political advocacy for trade justice, may secure a better deal for poor producers.

Fair trade also gives conscious consumers a chance to support and demand just terms of trade for the world’s poor, and to distance themselves from unequal trade rules. It is an opportunity to show respect for people and environment, and to lead the way as a political consumer.

In Denmark, MS puts the spotlight on trade justice during the annual fair trade festival "Fair Fælled" in Copenhagen. MS activists also promote fair trade products at, for instance, high schools, universities and local festivals throughout Denmark. Moreover MS has succeeded in getting Copenhagen approved as a Fairtrade City, and these activities will continue to expand to include all regions in Denmark.