Reading - Beyond the Label: Why Fair Trade Matters

Read the text and complete the activities below.

In today’s globalized economy, a simple cup of coffee involves a complex journey. For many consumers, the price tag is the only concern, but for millions of producers in developing nations, that price determines their quality of life. This is where Fair Trade steps in, moving beyond traditional charity to create a sustainable business model.

The primary goal of Fair Trade is to eliminate the "middleman." In conventional trade, multiple agents take a cut of the profit, leaving the original farmer with pennies. Fair Trade cooperatives ensure that farmers receive a guaranteed minimum price, which acts as a safety net when market prices crash. Furthermore, a "Fairtrade Premium" is paid—an extra sum of money that the community votes on how to spend, often investing in clean water, healthcare, or schools.

However, Fair Trade is not just about money; it is about empowerment and environmental stewardship. To be certified, producers must follow strict standards, such as banning child labor and reducing the use of harmful pesticides. By choosing a product with the Fairtrade mark, consumers send a powerful message to corporations: we care about the hands that harvest our food.

ACTIVITIES

Activity 1: True, False, or Not Given

Read the statements and click on the correct option according to the text.

1. For all consumers around the world, the price of coffee is the only concern.

True

False

Not Given

2. The Fairtrade Premium is paid directly into the personal bank accounts of individual farmers.

True

False

Not Given

3. Producers must adhere to strict environmental and social rules to get Fair Trade certification.

True

False

Not Given

4. Fair Trade coffee is usually more expensive in supermarkets than conventional coffee.

True

False

Not Given

Activity 2: Fill in the Blanks

Drag and drop the words into the correct spaces to complete the sentences.

middleman

minimum price

certified

premium

1. The primary goal of Fair Trade is to remove the

so farmers get a fair share.

2. When the market crashes, farmers are protected by a guaranteed

.

3. The community votes on how to invest the extra money, called the Fairtrade

.

4. To become

, producers must ban child labor and reduce pesticides.