There are approximately 25 million farmers and coffee workers in over 50 countries involved in producing coffee around the world.  Coffee producers, like most agriculture workers around the world are kept in a cycle of poverty and debt by the current global economy.  This is all in an attempt to keep consumer prices low and exploit cheap labor.

Fair Trade helps farmers in developing countries build sustainable businesses that positively influence their communities. It ensures that farmers receive fair prices and credit by organizing farming groups that receive a guaranteed minimum floor price (or the market price if it’s higher). Fair Trade also provides for fair labor conditions and strictly prohibits forced child and slave labor.

Other benefits of Fair Trade are programs to help with community development such as schools for their children, healthcare and business improvement training. Organic farming is promoted with training for farmers and by offering a higher price for organic products.

Fair Trade also prohibits harmful agrochemicals and GMOs in favor of environmentally sustainable farming methods that protect farmers’ health and preserve the valuable environment for future generations.

Products such as Java Planet Organic Coffee that bear the Fair Trade Logo contribute to the livelihoods of millions of people, improving lives and protecting the planet.