The Fair Trade movement started in Europe in the 1960s to help producers in developing countries receive their fair share of the revenue from the sale of their products in the developed world.

Since then Fair Trade has grown in influence and power. The movement has created trading partnerships and ethical trading initiatives. It has improved working conditions, remuneration and market access. Since the 1980s, Fair Trade labeling has raised awareness with consumers dramatically.

The result? Fair Trade products are now in 43 000 supermarkets and 12 000 retailers in Europe and the USA. Globally, sales exceed $500 million a year.

Fair Trade in Tourism

Fair Trade in Tourism is about ensuring that the people whose land, natural resources, labour, knowledge and culture are used for tourism activities, actually benefit from tourism.

In 1999 Tourism Concern, a London based organization, initiated an International Network on Fair Trade in Tourism which focused mainly on research, advocacy, and information sharing.

On 13 June 2002, the Fair Trade in Tourism SA Trademark was officially launched in South Africa - the first time in the history of the fair trade movement that a trademark or label for the tourism sector had been created.

On 22 October 2003, the first Trademark Users were accredited.

The Power of Socially Conscious Tourists:

67% of global citizens now want companies to go beyond their role of making a profit, paying taxes and employing people. They want companies to contribute to broader societal goals as well (Global Millenium Poll).

65% of UK tourists would like to know how to support the local economy and preserve the environment so they can behave responsibly when they go on holiday (Worlds Apart, Tearfund).

71% of UK tourists think it is important that their travel arrangements benefit the people living in the destination - through jobs and business opportunities (Worlds Apart Tearfund).

52% of UK holidaymakers say they are more likely to book a holiday with a company that has a written code to guarantee good working conditions, protect the environment and support local charities (Worlds Apart, Tearfund).

53% of American travelers say their travel experience is enhanced when they learn as much as possible about local customs and culture. (USA Geo-tourism Survey).

95% of Swiss tourists consider respect for local culture to be highly important when choosing a holiday (Switzerland Travel Writers and Journalism Club).

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