Fair Trade Certification Spells Growth to Avocado Farmers

The global demand for avocados has skyrocketed in recent years, presenting both opportunities and challenges for farmers. As the avocado market expands, the Fair Trade certification has emerged as a tool for fostering sustainable development and social equity. 

Fair Trade guarantees farmers a minimum price for their crops, providing a financial safety net against market volatility. This pricing model allows farmers to invest in their farms, plan for the future, and support their families. Additionally, Fair Trade premiums—additional funds paid on top of the selling price—are invested back into the community through projects in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Carlos Genel, an economist and second-generation avocado grower from Michoacan, explained that Fair Trade premiums directly benefit workers. "The extra money goes to our workers to improve their lives, and the workers manage and administer the money from the premium. The program educates them because they learn how a company is managed and how to handle finances,” he says.

Fair Trade certification also promotes democratic decision-making. Premiums are used to fund initiatives that improve local access to food, healthcare, and education. One notable example is the creation of a school offering classes for both children and adults, as well as health programs, which involved providing groceries to every employee’s family each month and organizing health campaigns, such as vision testing for children.

Fair Trade certification also brings direct economic benefits. As conscious consumers increasingly seek transparency and traceability in their purchases, certifications like Fair Trade help meet this demand. This focus on ethical sourcing allows farmers to access markets that are willing to pay a premium for socially responsible products. Moreover, certification can open doors to direct partnerships with companies such as Costco and Whole Foods.