Scotland on course to be a Fairtrade nation

28th February 2012

Across the country, 62 towns have either achieved Fairtrade status or have active steering groups. Almost two-thirds of higher education institutions and 171 schools have achieved the standard.

Fairtrade products are said to offer a better deal to workers in developing countries. Over 4,500 items are now sold as "fairtrade" and the most popular of these are bananas, chocolate, coffee and sugar.

In Scotland all six cities and 14 of the country's 32 councils have Fairtrade status, with only four more local authorities needed for Scotland to become one of the world's first Fairtrade nations. Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop said "It is encouraging to see good progress being made across all walks of life in Scotland, whether that is in our schools, colleges and universities, churches or within central and local government.

"The Scottish government is committed to raising awareness and promoting the Fairtrade agenda throughout Scotland and I am confident that later this year, Scotland will become a Fairtrade nation."

Communities across the country are working hard so that Scotland can become a Fair Trade Nation in 2012. By becoming a Fair Trade Nation, Scotland will be delivering a real and lasting impact, contributing to reducing poverty, improving the lives of people and helping them access their rights, an important element of Scotland’s contribution to the world.