The conference opened with a keynote speech from Rt. Hon Stephen Timms MP, who credited Traidcraft with leading the revolution which has made fair trade a reality in Britain, taking it into the mainstream shopping.
He also spoke of Traidcraft’s role in influencing the government and trade policy.
Representatives of Traidcraft suppliers in Malawi, Mauritius, Chile and The Philippines led seminars illustrating the positive impact fair trade is having on the lives of producers, their families and their communities.
Gaby Kamudu, General Manager at Craft Aid in Mauritius, said, “The conference has been excellent and the supporters have been very interested. I think everyone has left feeling really motivated.”
Key staff from both the Traidcraft trading company and the charity used workshop sessions to help delegates understand what is involved in supporting producers, developing new products, opening up markets, campaigning for change and a whole range of other issues and challenges.
“Our supporters have been at the forefront of the fair trade revolution which has seen the UK become the largest fair trade market in the world,” said Traidcraft Chief Executive Paul Chandler.
“It’s a really exciting time to be involved in fair trade. There are some big challenges ahead but also some great opportunities; our conference will give them a flavour of all of that.”
Recognising our Christian roots, the conference finished with delegates joining the congregation at Durham Cathedral for morning worship, with Paul Chandler preaching and prayers and readings led by our producer visitors.
