Fair Trade – Cloze Test

FAIRTRADE

 

Fairtrade is an alternative approach to conventional trade and is based 0) __________ a partnership between producers and consumers. When farmers can sell on Fairtrade terms, it provides them 1) __________ a better deal and improved terms of trade. This 2) __________ them the opportunity to improve their lives and plan for their future. Fairtrade offers consumers a powerful way to reduce poverty through their every day shopping.

3) __________ a product carries the FAIRTRADE Mark, it means the producers and traders have met Fairtrade Standards. The Fairtrade Standards are designed to address the imbalance of power in trading relationships, unstable markets and the injustices of conventional trade.

There are distinct sets of Fairtrade Standards, which acknowledge different types of producers. One set of standards applies to smallholders [1]that are working 4) __________  in cooperatives or other organizations with a democratic structure. The 5) __________ set applies to workers, 6) __________  employers pay decent wages, guarantee the right to join trade unions, ensure health and safety standards and provide adequate housing where relevant.

Fairtrade Standards also cover terms of trade. Most products have a set Fairtrade Minimum Price, which is the minimum that 7) __________ be paid to the producers. In addition, producers get an additional sum, the Fairtrade Premium, to invest 8) __________  their communities or businesses.

The minimum price paid to Fairtrade producers is determined by the Fairtrade Standards and Pricing Unit. It applies to most Fairtrade certified products. This price aims to ensure that producers can cover their average costs of sustainable production. It acts as a safety net [2]for farmers at times when world markets 9) __________  below a sustainable level.

Only when the market price is higher than the Fairtrade Minimum Price, 10) __________ the buyer have to pay the higher price. Producers and traders can also negotiate higher prices on the basis of quality and other attributes.

 

Adapted from: http://www.fairtrade.net/what-is-fairtrade.html

 

1. ON

[1] Smallholder: a person who operates a farm.

[2] Safety net: A guarantee, as of professional, physical, or financial security.

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