As the first and only World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO)
certified company in Malaysia, at Indochine Natural we are often asked this
question.
Firstly, the term “ethical trade” is a fairly broad term
that covers a range of business practices that are designed to promote more
socially and environmentally responsible business practices. For example, this
includes adherence to internationally recognized codes of practice for labor
and ethical business behavior, plus other practices that minimizes harm that
may be caused by trade.
On the other hand, “Fair Trade,” while embracing the
principles of ethical trade, goes one step further and seeks to encourage and
find opportunities for the economic development of disadvantaged people. This is not in
the form of charity, but positive capacity development to enable these
disadvantaged people to take part in business and generate income to help them
along the road to economic independence.
In Viet Nam, Indochine Natural worked with poor farmers to
develop capacity in growing and producing loofah products. In Malaysia we work
with a group of rural based intellectually disabled people to produce a range
of household cleaning products made from recycled oil collected from local
restaurants. In both cases the capacity development provided by Indochine
Natural has helped these groups to become more finically independent and has
made a positive contribution to their lives.
As a consumer you cal also make a positive impact on these people's lives by purchasing these Fair Trade products from all JustLifestores in Malaysia, or from our online store.
More details of our Fair Trade activities are available on
our website
