The Fair Trade Philososophy.....

Fair Trade means an equitable and fair partnership between marketers and producers in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and other parts of the world. A fair trade partnership works to provide low-income artisans and farmers with a living wage for their work. Fair Trade Federation (FTF) criteria are:-Paying a fair wage in the local context.

Offering employees opportunities for advancement.
Providing equal employment opportunities for all people, particularly the most disadvantaged.
Engaging in environmentally sustainable practices.
Being open to public accountability.
Building long-term trade relationships.
Providing healthy and safe working conditions within the local context.
Providing financial and technical assistance to producers whenever possible

The Fair Trade project has existed in Egypt since 1990.The first project was started in Cairo by a Development Fund. The goal of the project is to support craft producers throughout the country by increasing their income and preserving Egyptian crafts

In Luxor the idea was taken over by a Swiss businessman who lived in Luxor and created the 'Fair Trade Center - Luxor',which is a member of the Fair Trade Federation and adheres to its rules and principles. The shop is operated by young women from Luxor. With fixed prices and a fair share for the producers, the shop offers visitors to Luxor an alternative to the usual tourist souvenir shops.