Fair Trade: What does it mean?

In the post on May 30, "Africa and Justice," Peter Henriot, S.J. says that justice for Africa requires trade justice.  "Unless free trade is fair trade, there is no just trade for Africa."
The following article on "Fair Trade" is from Sr. Margaret Bulmer, CCVI, director of the Office of Social Concerns for the Houston CCVIs.

Those of you who watched the DVD “The Dark Side of Chocolate” will remember the discussion about Fair Trade. What is Fair Trade?

Fair Trade is a system of exchange that honors producers, communities, consumers and the environment. It is a model for the global economy rooted in people-to-people connections, justice and sustainability. When you make Fair Trade purchases you are supporting:
* A Fair Trade Price for Products:
For Fair Trade Certified “Products”, a base price for the commodity is set by the International Fair Trade Labeling Organization. The price attempts to cover the cost of production and a living wage to cover the basics of food, shelter, clothing, education and medical care.  Importers and retailers are then screened and certified by TransFairUSA to ensure that they are paying the Fair Trade price for products. Crafts, apparel and other noncertified products are sold by members of the Fair Trade Federation, businesses committed to the principles of Fair Trade.  CLICK HERE to read more.