Most of the work on Indian tea plantations is done by women. Unlike most of these women, the Makaibari Tea Garden plantation's workers enjoy a decent standard of living, and 10 of the 16 members of its decision-making body are women.

Their involvement in the management of the business has given the women a unique perspective on solving problems. A worldwide dropoff in tea sales for several years has not resulted in simply shutting the business down, as would typically happen with distant ownership. Their innovation and ambition led them to invest in eco-lodges to take advantage of the 50,000 tourists who visit the plantation every year. After a successful small trial, they have moved into building 14 accommodation rooms.

Inquiries have been pouring in, so they're now planning to extend the services provided. Fair Trade has provided the means for women whose lives had been grueling to take control and provide a higher standard of living for their communities.

Fair Trade Labelling Organizations International (FLO)

FLO describes itself as:

  • part of a worldwide network of Fair Trade organizations actively involved in supporting producers, awareness raising and campaigning for changes in the rules and practices of conventional international trade.

They are the owners of the Fairtrade (single word) logo shown above the menu to the left. It is the mark that certifies a legitimate association with Fairtrade by producers, traders, and promoters of it.

FLO's tasks are to:

  • Set international Fairtrade Standards. FLO e.V. is an independent group that's responsible for devising Fairtrade standards, which are presented to the full Board, which has a significant stakeholder representation, holds final authority for acceptance of them.

  • Facilitate and develop Fairtrade business. FLO e.V. interacts with both producers and traders to coordinate supply and demand. It also works with producers to improve production and market access.

  • Make the case for trade justice. In coordination with the other FINE organizations, FLO engages in international debates on the issues of justice and development in trade.

The Fairtrade certification process is managed by FLO-Cert.

For further information about FLO, go to their website.