February 2004
A VERY NICE GIFT
From an Ecuadorian newspaper “El Universo”: In the
remote areas of Ecuador an air of freedom prevails over the country
because many small producers have managed to move away from the
paternalistic era with the implementation of many changes.
“64 years old Félix Antonio Ortega, agriculturist
of organic banana and cocoa from the association Cerro Azul, in
the province of El Oro, received one of the nicest Christmas and
New Year’s presents ever when he was informed that thanks
to the persistence and efforts of his association they have been
able to become certified with FLO, meaning that instead of endless
struggles to obtain a decent price they now receive a price that
at least covers the cost of production.”
“Félix confirms that he will receive 9 US$ per box
of bananas, from which export and additional expenses are deducted,
moreover the Fairtrade premium is deducted to invest in the development
of the organisation. Félix remains with 6 US$ per box, which
in his opinion is ideal because now he will be able to improve his
living conditions, an assurance that age is not an impediment to
have a change of mentality.”
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