Louter's Essay Why The World Deserves Better Than Fair Trade

In her essay, Why the World Deserves Better than Fair Trade, Paige Louter discusses benefits and issues with the Fair Trade system. Her thesis is, “Why would anyone argue against a system of trade that provides improved housing and eliminates the need for child labour?” (1) Louter begins by explaining the differences between “Fair trade” and “fairtrade.” “Fair trade” stands for the concept, whereas “Fairtrade” or “Fair Trade” is the organization's name. While some companies may use this minutia to their advantage, others are themselves confused and unintentionally mislead customers. Fairtrade organizations have some “guarantees” intended to help poor farmers. One such guarantee is a “Premium” that intends to fund beneficial projects such as hospitals. However, as

Families have been saved from poverty, children no longer need to work, and Fairtrade has raised awareness that the current trade system is flawed, but measures can be taken to fix it. However, Fairtrade has many flaws. Louter starts her description by pointing out several issues in the claims of a Fairtrade promoter. Such as, despite claiming Fairtrade is the best way to fix unfair trade, the promoter shows no evidence that Fairtrade is superior. One factor harming Fairtrade's cause is quality; Fairtrade's goods are lower quality than other products. This is the case because there is no quality control, and Fairtrade will only take up to a maximum amount from farmers, who then sell the rest on the market. Some customers will not buy Fairtrade because the quality is too poor. A second factor harming Fairtrade's cause is that they do not actively promote women's rights. Fairtrade makes no effort to ensure women are being employed. And the few women who are employed precariously juggle work and household duties. As well, some farmers are not allowed in the Fairtrade system, and others, while under Fairtrade, still work in unpleasant conditions and are