Fair trade began in the late 1940's as an effort to help impoverished countries bring their agriculture products to a more lucrative international market. They also helped exploited coffee farmers acquire better living and working conditions. 



In modern times, fair trade has expanded its products from coffee to include: tea, chocolate, honey, bananas, flowers, wine, cotton, and even some clothing. Coffee and bananas dominate the majority of their sales. In recent years, fair trade has grown by a margin of 20%-72% every year.

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Fair trade has also grown more stringent on their certification standards to prevent child labor, promote environmental preservation, contains no hazardous chemicals, and maintain fair pricing.