The movement helps people to work in better conditions and helps them get more money for what they make. These things give workers the opportunity to improve their lives and plan for their future, and they help reduce poverty. The movement also tries to keep the environment the same.
Fair trade helps people in developing countries sell to people in developed countries. Things that are sold in international trade include handicrafts and other manufactured goods, agricultural products such as
- grains,
- coffee,
- cocoa,
- sugar,
- tea,
- bananas,
- honey,
- cotton,
- wine,
- fresh fruit,
- chocolate,
- flowers, and
- minerals such as iron and petroleum.
Merchandise that has fair trade status can be given a fair trade certificate. This says it follows rules about fairness to workers and the environment.