What problem or need is the project addressing?
Many producers are desperate for income and have no alternative but to sell to local traders. This means they are vulnerable to exploitation.
India has had a long history of association with the fair trade movement in Europe. Over 50 producer organisations have been supplying the European market with fair trade products over the last 40 years.
Fair trade has traditionally involved the export of goods from developing countries to developed countries. However fair trade can also involve trade within a country. This is a new but potentially rewarding opportunity for fair trade producers.
With a population of over 1 billion, and a growing middle class, India offers a huge opportunity for poor producers. This is especially the case for the poorest producers who do not have the capacity to sell to export markets.
What is the project doing?
This project will develop the fair trade market in India by:
- Promoting the concept of ‘fair trade’ within India
- Influencing key decision/policy makers to support fair trade
- Developing appropriate fair trade standards for India – including monitoring and certification systems
- Develop a distribution and retail network for the sale of fair trade products
- Building the capacity of 30 fair trade producer groups so that they can benefit from this new market opportunity
What impact has the project had?
This project has already seen significant success. It has received strong and high-profile support within India, and has energised a large multi-stakeholder group. The group is working hard to launch an Indian fair trade label by 2008.
Our local partner
Traidcraft Exchange is implementing this project with IRFT. IRFT has 10 years of experience of supporting small businesses across India. It also operates on fair trade principles and has been promoting ethical business practices across the country.
How is this project funded?
The project is funded by the European Commission, Belgium Technical Cooperation, grant-making trusts, and donations from generous individuals.
