The Fairtrade movement in the context of sustainable development

Abstract

Introduction. The Fairtrade movement arises from the need for an alternative to traditional trade under the capitalist vision, which has not found a way to promote the development of nations in an equitable way. Furthermore, many authors underline the responsibility of traditional trade for the growth of inequality and the impoverishment of many nations globally. Due to this failure of traditional trade, The Fairtrade movement appears to propose a new form of commercial exchange based on respect, dialogue, equity between producers and consumers and environmental responsibility. Aim. To analyze the principles of fair trade, its principles, the obstacles to its adoption and application and the tasks to be accomplished and the articulation that exists between fair trade and the sustainable development goals proposed by the United Nations Development Program. Methods. To carry out this research work, the documentary analysis methodology was used, including relevant documents on the research subject. Different bibliographic resources were analyzed, with special emphasis on the Latin American context Results. There are many barriers for small producers to adopt and implement projects under this alternative trade scheme, such as prohibitive costs of certifications, weak representation of producers in the organizations that decide the criteria for awarding Fairtrade certifications, low level of knowledge of the citizens about Fairtrade’s principles and activities, producers’ lack of economic and financial resources, among others. Conclusions.  Access to the Fairtrade scheme is easier for large producer organizations with greater experience in issues such as exports, with mature organizational structures, to give a few examples. This causes small producers to be increasingly marginalized. However, Fairtrade well applied is undoubtedly an advantageous tool for sustainable development.