Light on Fair Trade: Recent Comments

Comment on Verifiable Fair Trade

2009-11-27T11:22:47Z

Yes. I see it from agriculture. I have written "Fairtrade Fallacies", "Fairtrade isn't Fair" and "Why an independent evaluation of Fairtrade is needed". See www.griffithsspeaker.com.
Keep asking awkward questions

Comment on 3 Ways to Add Value to the "Gift" Fair Trade Label

2009-03-18T11:01:11Z

Wow, I never knew that 3 Ways to Add Value to the "Gift" Fair Trade Label. That’s pretty interesting...

Comment on Fashion Begins to Focus on Fair Trade/Organic/Recycled

2008-12-22T17:25:12Z

If this is really true, then I praise whoever had the idea. When buying I always look for quality and comfort. I also stay away from so much high priced things and will always love discounts! :D

Comment on Questioning the 'Fair Trade' Label

2008-07-28T05:14:27Z

Chris- Thanks for the note. My only difference is that I do not at this time discriminate on the basis of a product being fair trade or not, but focus instead on transparency. The label can also disguise transparency and in fact there are many cases of where this is so. At the same time, the original intent of fair trade I think is sound. Those who argue purely 'supply side' economics forget that concern for workers' welfare is a factor of the marketplace whether they share this concern or not. It is not 'anti-market'. As consumers we are also in a sense employers- but whether or not there is a label, there are workers involved and any company that promotes transparency is worth consideration. The label, if used properly should act as a door to this transparency. If I merely see the label without transparency, I am probably less inclined to buy and a bit cynical as I feel I am promoting the exploitation of the workers on the ground - who are rarely an active part of the 'fair trade' argument. We are marketing them - without their participation while hiding them at the same time from transparency. This arrangement is too lop- sided in favor of the marketeer. Best- Tom

Comment on Questioning the 'Fair Trade' Label

2008-07-27T16:48:45Z

I'm a fan of Fairtrade because I think it's a good start towards bringing issues to public attention and making changes. However, I very much doubt it's without fault and those who believe in it should stand up and help change these as we progress. Most of the attacks on Fair Trade I've seen are very poor and hold no substance. However the issues Tom raises here are very valid and without the ideological fervour usually found. I wish Tom success and hope ethical trading initatives (including but not limited to Fair Trade) don't just bury there head in the sand to these issues but start to act upon them. I will continue to buy Fair Trade where possible because I have trust in the brand to work towards a more favourable world for all - unlike when you purchase non-fair trade brands where you are atking pure pot luck as to the intentions of the company. But we all are responsible for not accepting Fair Trade with blind faith, and continuing to ask these questions to ensure it progresses in the correct direct.

Comment on Socialism, Globalization and Fair Trade

2008-07-13T12:21:36Z

Beautifully written.