2016 Postmortem
In reply to the discussion: Bernie/Trump/Hillary On Trade Policy - When You Say You Are Against Free Trade Agreements [View all]PufPuf23
(8,774 posts)Free trade
Free trade is a policy followed by some international markets in which countries' governments do not restrict imports from, or exports to, other countries. Free trade is exemplified by the European Economic Area and the North American Free Trade Agreement, which have established open markets. Most nations are today members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) multilateral trade agreements.
Fair trade
Fair trade is a social movement whose stated goal is to help producers in developing countries achieve better trading conditions and to promote sustainability. Members of the movement advocate the payment of higher prices to exporters, as well as improved social and environmental standards. The movement focuses in particular on commodities, or products which are typically exported from developing countries to developed countries. The movement seeks to promote greater equity in international trading partnerships through dialogue, transparency, and respect. It promotes sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers in developing countries. Fair Trade is grounded in three core beliefs; first, producers have the power to express unity with consumers. Secondly, the world trade practices that currently exist promote the unequal distribution of wealth between nations. Lastly, buying products from producers in developing countries at a fair price is a more efficient way of promoting sustainable development than traditional charity and aid.
Free trade favors trans-national corporations and those that want to structure world trade on a neo-liberal free market model.
Labor and the environment are fungible and disposable.
Wealth and income is concentrated.
The free trade model is a form of neo-colonialism backed and maintained by military and economic empire.