The FAIRTRADE Mark was launched in 1994 to guarantee for products that help producers in developing countries get a better deal from international trade.

Fair Trade labeling is an international system of standards for producers that are adequately protected and can build a more sustainable future.

Over 5 million people buys certified products in over 20 national markets across Europe, North America, Japan and Mexico.

The FAIRTRADE Mark currently appears on a range of products including coffee, tea, cocoa, fresh fruit, juice, honey, wine, dried fruit, nuts and sugar, and non-food products such as flowers, sports balls and cotton.

The Mark can also be found on products that use these ingredients in conjunction with others that are not covered by Fair Trade standards, such as hot chocolate drinks, snack bars, cakes and biscuits.

The Fair Trade movement started 30 years ago, when a network of organizations searched for  ways to relieve poverty and injustices in the world of trade.

Projects and community enterprises have been set up to assist people in disadvantaged circumstances to earn a living through export trade.

The common principle is to empower producers in improving  their own lives by working through democratic organizations, and enabling consumers to use their purchasing power to change the way world trade is managed.

The first labeling initiative was set up for coffee by the Max Havelaar Foundation in the Netherlands in 1988.