Fairtrade

Many companies make their profits through the unfair arrangements they ‘negotiate’ with their growers and suppliers. Its unfair because the power relationship through profit is weighted one way. Whilst the big companies attain profits that allow them to evolve, those who supply them their produce have no-win choices about the deals they are forced to accept.

In the past it has been accepted as good business practice to exploit, achieve high margins, guarantee supply. Thankfully one-dimensional economics and Executive careers are no longer the only drivers of international relations. New economics and new corporate responsibility are warmly received.

Fairtrade promotes fair negotiations that embrace pricing, working conditions, local sustainability, and mutual terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. By requiring companies to pay sustainable prices, Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which traditionally discriminates against the poorest, weakest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have more control over their lives.

Cadbury have announced they will adopt Fairtrade principles in 2010. This is wonderful and they should be congratulated.
A factsheet tells you more.