Fair Trade (FT) continues expanding in Lebanon and Fair Trade Lebanon strengthens its position as a key player in sustainable development in Lebanon.
In fact, Fair Trade Lebanon (FTL), the NGO founded in January 2006 by Philippe Adaime, Samir Abdelmalak, Johanne Karkour, Gabriel Debbané and Jad Bitar in order to support small producers in the South, the Bekaa valley and the North of Lebanon, finds itself today rewarded by the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), which recognizes it as a member of this organization.
The motto of Fair Trade being "Trade not Aid", it entails its actors to offer fair prices to producers, adopt the principles of transparency and preserve agreement and continuity in trade partnerships. It aims to help small producers –located in the South in general- to sell their products in "Northern" countries, without intermediaries, in a transparent manner from producer to buyer.
Thus, during its short history, FTL has successfully developed more than fifty food-processed products from a dozen cooperatives, which are now distributed in France and Canada. Over 72% of sales revenues go directly to producers' cooperatives, and this activity affects approximately 350 direct beneficiaries. Also, by being present at the National Forum of Fair Trade in Lille, France, during the Fair Trade fortnight, FTL has managed to establish new partnerships in Belgium and Germany.
Finally, and following the growing Lebanese demand for products of quality and social solidarity, FTL launches its brand Terroirs du Liban in local market, through selective outlets, small supermarkets and over the internet.
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