Fair Trade Organizations buy products directly from organized small-scale producers in developing countries, guaranteeing them a higher price for their products.

Producers must comply with ecological and, in particular, with social principles and practices such as (1) trading partnerships are based on long-term and reciprocal benefits and mutual respect; (2) prices paid to producers reflect the work they do; (3) workers have the right to organize; (4) employees have opportunities for advancement; (5) equal employment opportunities are available to all people, particularly the most disadvantaged; (6) financial and technical assistance is provided to producers whenever possible; (7) national health, safety, and wage laws are enforced; (8) practices and products are environmentally sustainable and conserve natural resources; and (9) business is open to public accountability.

The Fair Trade Organizations assist producers in product development, technology transfer, credit access, accounting, education and training with the aim of improving their organization and marketing. Fish is not yet included in Fair Trade but an organization in Germany is about to start with products from small-scale fishermen in India. Products that are already firmly on the market include coffee, tea, toys, soccer balls, handicraft, dried fruits and orange juice. It is likely that fish and fish products will gain a larger share of the fair trade.