Fairtrade funding announced

The international Development Secretary Douglas Alexander, has announced a doubling of funds to Fairtrade labelling, a commitment of £1.2 million over 2 years through the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation.  This will help to expand the Fairtrade label internationally and help producers in the world’s poorest countries.

Speaking at an event to celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight, Douglas Alexander called on retailers to stock more products from developing countries.  He said: "Trade is a powerful way of reducing poverty and the UK is firmly committed to achieving trade justice by improving trading opportunities for developing countries.

"Fair and ethical trade initiatives such as the Fairtrade label have been successful in developing new and better approaches to trade with developing countries.

 "UK consumers and businesses recognise the benefits of buying products from developing countries – both in terms of quality and as a simple and effective way of supporting the poorest people on this earth. Research shows that every two years, UK shoppers have doubled the amount of Fairtrade goods they buy.

 "This announcement will see Fairtrade labelling expand internationally and help more producers from the poorest countries export their products.

 "It is also important to remember the bigger trade picture of which Fairtrade labelling is a small but important part. In 2006, UK supermarkets spent around £2.7 billion buying food, clothes and toys from developing countries. We would like to see more British and international retailers stock more products from developing countries - both Fairtrade labelled products and other products also made by poor producers."

The £1.2 million grant over two years will support the strategic development of Fairtrade through the international Fairtrade Labelling Organisation. The funding is part of a £3 million multi-donor programme to increase support for the Fairtrade label internationally –– and help more developing country producers export their products.