The CFTN works to address global social, political, economic and environmental inequities via a market-led approach. The CFTN’s approach in doing so is to first promote and grow a social movement of educated and informed consumers.  Secondly it focuses on Fair Trade and its potential for developing a new economic model that creates stability, opportunity and increased sustainability in our social and environmental worlds.

 The Canadian Fair Trade Network is built upon two pillars: 1) relationships and 2) dialogue. The CFTN believes that substantial change can be created in the world by opening up communication channels and by sharing tools and best practices. Secondly it believes that building the relationships with and between stakeholders can be a key driver towards creating positive social change. The Canadian Fair Trade Network believes that the first step in building a movement and creating change is self-actualization or understanding the landscape, followed by deeper level understanding; where social change then becomes the outcome.

The network will connect advocates, organizations, companies and certifiers as key stakeholders within the movement.  It will also create deeper understanding of the root causes of global instability and inequity, by addressing issues within the supply chain and global markets. The network will create greater awareness of growers, producers, and manufacturers in developing nations, and the challenges they face on a day to day basis. Social change is fostered by understanding. The network and its partners will create and drive greater understanding of our globalized world and the impacts of our consumption choices and actions.