The New York Times Reports on Fair Trade

The October 2, 2007 edition of The New York Times has an article "Fair Trade in Bloom" that highlights recent developments in fair trade, including the increase in consumer spending on fair trade products.  From the article:

According to Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International, a group of fair trade certifiers, consumers spent approximately $2.2 billion on certified products in 2006, a 42 percent increase over the previous year, benefiting over seven million people in developing countries.

There is also a slide show that accompanies the article.  To learn more about fair trade:

Fair Trade Resource Network - Resources for consumers and businesses.

Transfair USA - Only third-party certifier of Fair Trade products in the United States.

Fair Trade Shopping Resources (EvolveShopping.com)