Despite facing a series of global challenges, the spirit of Fairtrade continues to shine in Luxembourg, supported by the unwavering support of conscious consumers and the committed partners of the NGO Fairtrade Lëtzebuerg.
In the face of successive crises that have hit both producers and workers, the need for fair trade is more crucial than ever. Rising fuel, transport and fertiliser costs, combined with the effects of climate change, have further jeopardised their livelihoods and existence.
Nevertheless, against this alarming backdrop, Luxembourg’s fair trade movement has made significant progress. In 2022, the average Luxembourger spent 60 euros per person on Fairtrade products, a respectable 13% increase on the previous year. In addition, sales of all Fairtrade products from the various partners of Fairtrade Lëtzebuerg reached the impressive sum of 39 million euros, which represents a substantial growth of 14% compared to 2021.
The diversity of Fairtrade-certified products, such as chocolate milk from Luxlait, pastries from Jos & Jean-Marie, chocolates from Ateliers du Tricentenaire and ice cream from Molkerei Thiry and Biogros, demonstrates the growing importance of local players committed to the “Fair and Local” concept. By combining Fairtrade-certified products with local produce and Luxembourgish know-how, these companies are making a significant contribution to the flourishing landscape of the movement.
Cocoa, coffee, bananas and even non-food products such as cotton and gold have seen remarkable growth, confirming Luxembourg’s role as a Fairtrade pioneer. This success is due not only to individual choices, but also to the collective efforts of 37 Fairtrade Gemeng-certified municipalities and 26 Fairtrade schools, whose dedication and awareness-raising campaigns have spread the Fairtrade ethic throughout the country.
Luxembourg’s progress in Fair Trade is a beacon of hope and sends a clear message of support to producers and workers in regions such as Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. The collective commitment of consumers, businesses, municipalities and educational institutions in Luxembourg is fostering a fairer and more sustainable world in these uncertain times.
More information: www.fairtrade.lu
Picture: Fairtrade Lëtzebuerg
