Why Domestic Fair Trade?

Many people today are familiar with International Fair Trade, as it applies to the import of items such as coffee, tea, and cocoa. However, as the movement has grown it has become apparent that many of the challenges facing producers in developing countries are facing family farmers here in North America. Big agribusiness continues to thrive while small farmers have gone out of business. Consumers pay more, while farmers receive less. Farmworkers are denied fair wages and basic rights.

To be a resource for both the public and the broader movement in assessing marketplace claims for social justice or fairness, DFTA is developing criteria for fair trade programs.

We are working to:

-raise awareness of domestic fair trade issues

-promote legitimate fair trade and social justice programs

-support business that practice fair trade

– improve conditions and outcomes for farmers and workers.