Minka Fair Trade

MINKA Fair Trade has been working to combat poverty in Peru for over three decades. Founded in 1976, MINKA was the first Peruvian organization to engage in fair trade and has been an active member of the International Fair Trade Association since its creation in 1991. Presently, over 3,000 producers who were helped to be organized democratically by MINKA are working with us to facilitate sustainable development practices in marginalized areas of Peru. MINKA in Quechua means working together for the greater good of everyone and reflects a system of values that champions education and capacity building by defending quality, responsibility, opportunity, fulfillment, perseverance, creativity, solidarity and reciprocity.

Fair Trade

MINKA is a pioneer in the Latin American fair trade market with over thirty years of uninterrupted activity. We strive to reduce poverty of our producers through fair trade practices. Producers working with MINKA benefit from higher prices for their products as compared to those selling in the traditional market. As well, through specific evaluative techniques, our organization ensures fair distribution of labour amongst its producer organizations.

Partnership

MINKA in Quechua, our native language means joint work through community effort. For many of the producer organizations, MINKA is the first alternative market outlet that promotes their working together and proves that contrary to traditional market practices, fair trade can benefit them all. MINKA forms long-term socio-economic partnerships with rural producers, and in cooperation with one another, find just alternatives to the traditional market.

Preservation

MINKA works with artisans who use age-old techniques to produce the finest quality products. The purchase of these hand crafted textiles, ceramics, musical instruments, oils, grains and gifts not only contribute to an increased income for those who share their time and talent but also works towards preserving ancient techniques, traditions, and values.

Awareness

By supporting our producer’s efforts toward economic independence and supplying our clients worldwide with high quality products and services, MINKA endeavors to spread awareness and empower all involved in the trading process to embrace Fair Trade and environmentally sustainable solutions. Additionally, by sharing years of comprehensive research concerning the realities of life for inhabitants of the Andes, MINKA spreads appreciation for the ancient traditions and technologies of these communities.

Capacity Building & Development

Within its capacity building initiative, MINKA promotes the active participation of producers in adapting to the changes required to fight poverty. Additionally, Profits generated by MINKA are distributed among producer organizations where they are used for communal development projects.