Fair Trade Certified Products are traded through an alternative system to the conventional global market. It is an international system designed to guarantee that products from developing countries are being produced under just and sustainable conditions that directly benefit the people producing them. Over fifty different products including coffee, tea, sugar, rice, quinoa, cut flowers, wine, fruit, cotton and sports balls are imported.

Trade Standards

TransFair Canada is one of twenty member countries of FLO International (Fairtrade Labelling Organization). FLO develops the standards for Fair Trade Certified products, and certifies and monitors the supply chain. Producers are assured a minimum price and they also receive a Fair Trade premium which can be invested in their communities. They also have access to low-interest loans. Direct trading relationships are established, thus eliminating the costs of a middleman.

Production Standards

• Minimum labour and quality standards must be followed
• Children under the age of 15 cannot be hired
• Work hazards are minimized

To find a retail outlet visit www.transfair.ca or ask in markets and coffee houses in your locality. Look for the logo Fair Trade Certified to guarantee fairness and social responsibility in international trade.