I have been a member of the Fair Trade Canada Board for 6 years. This summer I had the opportunity to go on a Fair Trade trip to Brazil to meet growers and producers, and connect with the ingredients. I visited fields, walked the land and visited greenhouses. Farmers form Fair Trade collectives and are paid above world prices for their food. They spend the money as they see fit. No interest loans are available to establish shelter and clean water accessibility. Child labour is not permitted. Fair Trade is the future and guarantees one.
I think of Brazil as a Garden of Eden, fruits and vegetables grow there so well. In the North West (where I was) irrigation and sustainability went hand in hand with maintaining levels of production. Continuing to replenish the water sources and sound agricultural practices were at the forefront of many discussions. The honey producers were most interesting. Aside from honey, they produce soaps, candles, candies, propolis and pollen. The varieties were delicious.
While in Brazil we attended the International Exotic Fruit Expo in Mossoro, Rio Grande do Norte. I have never tasted such exquisite fruit – guava, pineapple, mango, grapes, watermelon, banana, pear, 5 types of melon. We met the producers, the people growing the fruit, and the exporters. I was assigned a translator named Jean whose presence allowed me to bridge the language gap so that I could ask questions as we walked around the expo. It was great to hear that there is a supportive local food movement.
A refreshing swim in the Atlantic reminded me just how fortunate I was to be visiting Brazil and see firsthand the Fair Trade produce growing for local and export consumption. There is more than just price when you decide to buy Fair Trade ingredients. You are building community and a future for responsible agricultural practices. The event I attended brought together co-operatives, entrepreneurs, government representatives, international buyers and traders. Our discussions and meetings were focused on sustainability, practices and business models that will add market value and diversification to the Fair Trade Fruit Model. It was a valuable experience and an exciting trip.
