The growth of international trade has brought about significant
economic benefits and prosperity to many. However, small-scale
producers in many poor countries, particularly those whose livelihoods
depend upon the farming of a single crop, are unable to compete in a
world market controlled by large multinational companies and distorted
by the subsidies provided by rich countries to their producers. As a
consequence, farmers in poor countries have few options for generating
an income and many live in poverty often unable to meet even their most
basic needs. Fair trade is a response to these conditions.
European and North American Fairtrade labelling bodies,
non-governmental organisations and various faith-based organisations
have all been instrumental in promoting fair trade. Indeed, for ethical
and moral reasons, many Christian faith-based organisations have
adopted a clear and unequivocal position in support of fair trade. Is
an Islamic perspective on fair trade also supportive? Do Islamic
principles and teachings encourage Muslim organisations to be equally
active? And does an Islamic perspective provide additional insights? In
order to address these questions, this paper presents an Islamic
perspective on fair trade. It does this by outlining the key principles
upon which fair trade is based, such as sustainability, fairness,
equity, and workers rights, and examines relevant Islamic teachings.
This investigation finds that the principles of Islam are not
silent on issues of fair trade and trade justice. Indeed, there is a
rich heritage in Islam of high moral standards, ethics, values and
norms of behaviour, which govern personal, professional and business
life. In the area of business and commerce Islam obliges buyers,
sellers and consumers to act honestly, fairly and with integrity in
their daily business practices – for business is not something that can
be treated separately from all other aspects of social life. Islam also
obliges workers to be treated fairly, and with dignity and respect.
Since the fair trade movement is primarily concerned with fairness,
equity and justice, it seems that the principles of fair trade and the
teachings of Islam are entirely congruent. With references from the
Qur’an and ahadith this analysis demonstrates that, from an Islamic
perspective, there are indeed strong and clear faith-based reasons for
supporting fair trade initiatives. Through supporting fair trade,
Muslims can ensure that producers receive a fair price that guarantees
a living income and decent working conditions with longer-term
contracts that provide greater security and ensure more sustainable
development.
