FAIRTRADE - A growing movement - some shops in Delhi

Fair Trade which in its simplest sense means the trade is fair to the producer groups. Fair Trade cottons is what is relevant. Fair Trade cotton products covers the entire spectrum of home furnishings, men’s wear, women’s wear, chidren’s clothes, toys…..With cotton being emphasized the world over, for the textile sector, using Fair Trade cotton in production of garments or being certified as Fair Trade producer of it is beneficial to garner greater business. The most comprehensive and well known is the definition adopted by FINE an informal association of the four Fair Trade Organisations namely Fair trade Labelling Organisations International (FLO), World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO), Network of European Worldshops (NEWS!) and European Fair Trade Association (EFTA). The first letters of each of the four organization was used to form the word FINE. Each of the four organization contributes significantly in spreading awareness, to see the producer groups are not exploited by middle men and above all certifies products with the Fair Trade label an indication of the ethical standards adhered to. Most are present in over 70 countries. The biggest benefit of such a certification for the product is that it enjoys the patronage of consumers. Consumers are increasingly drawn towards eco-friendly organic products, it projects a brand image of the product being ethical. Also a portion of the price is set aside for community developments, socio-economic benefits a major plus today. It reiterates the products sustainability and environment consciousness. Another progress is the combining of fair-trade with organic to give it a further boost. The organizations also lay down standards for cotton. India has plenty of players who are certified operators in seed cottons and this includes Agrocel Industries Ltd., Abhishek Industries Ltd., Madura Garments Exports Ltd., JCT, Nahar Group of Companies…..

Some Fair Trade Shops in Delhi

Mesh – Uday Park

Indha – Gurgaon

Kala Aparajitha – Qutab

Silaiwali Panchsheel

 

We will cover these in detail as we go forward