Blog
FAIRTRADE WARNING THE CONSEQUENCES OF INCREASE COST FOR BANANAS
Cologne (agrar-PR) – The current crisis is driving up the cost of banana production
Ahead of the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Fairtrade warned of the consequences of a new cost spiral for bananas, which could have negative effects for banana producers. “When we talk about sustainable supply chains, we also have to talk about a more equitable distribution of costs,” said Dieter Overath, CEO of Fairtrade Germany. “Although production costs have escalated in recent months, in Germany there is still confusion about who can supply the cheapest bananas,” Mr. Overath said. That's ridiculous. In an open letter, Fairtrade, along with seven agriculture ministers from the top banana growing countries, sounded the alarm and asked for shared responsibility for all parties in the supply chain.
In Germany, each private household eats about 16 kg of bananas per year. After all, every Friday banana is now Fairtrade certified.
Current crises are increasing costs
Manufacturers have been struggling with falling prices and rising packaging and shipping costs for months. The pandemic alone has pushed the cost of bananas to 60%. In addition, the economic impact of climate change is becoming increasingly noticeable: “To secure tomorrow's production, today must invest in climate adaptation. All members of the global supply chain must do this. Responsible business practices are unreliable without fair pricing,” emphasized Silvia Campos, Banana Product Manager at Fairtrade International. To cope with rising costs, Fairtrade raised the minimum price. Through its sustainable banana program, the organization also supports producers on issues such as yield, soil health and climate resilience.
Key industry players committed to climate protection
To promote the measures needed to adapt to climate change and reduce producers more, key industry players want to sign more voluntary commitments on climate protection at Fruit Logistica (on April 6). In addition to the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Fairtrade Germany, Fyffes, Global GAP, Global Nature Fund (GNF), Kaufland, Rainforest Alliance, Südwind Institut and WWF are among the signatories.
With the motto “Shaping the future together”, Fruit Logistica invites trade visitors from all over the world to come to Berlin from 5 to 7 April. Fairtrade is represented at the fair – in Hall 26, audience radio C-09.
(Source: Agrar presseportal)
