A Labour MEP is pledging her support for this year’s Fairtrade Fortnight which starts on Monday and running until the 8th March. This year marks the 20th Fairtrade Fortnight and so it will celebrate the impact that Fairtrade has had on growers and producers in some of the world’s poorest countries.
Glenis Willmott, Labour MEP for the East Midlands, said:
“The Fairtrade label has allowed consumers to shop ethically and empowered growers in developed countries by giving them a fair price for their produce. Fairtrade has played a vital role in tackling the extreme exploitation of producers in poor countries which is what we will celebrate during Fairtrade Fortnight.”
In 2013 alone, sales of Fairtrade products in the UK allowed producers in developing countries to invest over £26 million in community projects. Although Fairtrade certification has grown hugely in its impact and awareness since it was launched, it is estimated that just 10% of tea and 1.2% of cocoa in the world is traded on Fairtrade terms.
Glenis Willmott added:
“Although there is still a long way to go to make more people aware of the huge difference Fairtrade can make, we can be proud of what ethical retailers, consumers and manufacturers have achieved in the last 20 years. By choosing Fairtrade products like tea, coffee, chocolate, bananas and flowers, consumers can help build housing, schools, health facilities and much more for the people that grew their shopping.”
