Dominica National Fair Trade Organization (DNFTO)

The Dominica National Fair Trade Organization (DNFTO) is a pivotal entity in the nation’s agricultural sector, dedicated to promoting fair trade practices and enhancing the livelihoods of local farmers. Established to support smallholder farmers, particularly in the banana industry, the DNFTO ensures equitable trading conditions, sustainable farming methods, and community development.

The Role of the DNFTO in Dominica’s Agriculture

The DNFTO is crucial in coordinating fair trade activities, allowing farmers to access premium markets and secure better prices for their produce. By facilitating fair trade certification, the organization helps ensure Dominican farmers receive equitable compensation and adhere to sustainable farming standards.

The organization is responsible for:

• Farmer Registration and Training – Educating farmers on fair trade standards and best agricultural practices.
• Implementation of Fair Trade Principles – Ensuring ethical labour conditions, environmental responsibility, and sustainable farming methods.
• Market Access and Price Support – Helping farmers gain better pricing and stability in agricultural trade.

Collaborations and Government Support

The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) partnered with the DNFTO in 2009 to assess its structure and operations. This technical review aimed to enhance the organization’s capacity to navigate challenges in the banana industry and improve its ability to support smallholder farmers.

The DNFTO has also collaborated with the Dominica government to implement initiatives strengthening the agricultural sector. In 2010, National Fair Trade Coordinator Amos Wiltshire praised the government’s efforts, highlighting a $1 million support program through the Agricultural Industrial & Development (AID) Bank, providing farmers essential financial assistance.

Challenges and Market Access Issues

Despite its successes, the DNFTO has faced significant challenges, particularly in securing consistent market access for farmers. In 2015, Winfresh (UK) Ltd suspended banana purchases from Dominica due to quality concerns, severely impacting farmers who relied on this trade agreement. This event underscored the need for improved quality control measures and greater diversification of Dominica’s fair trade products.

The Future of Fair Trade in Dominica

The DNFTO remains committed to strengthening fair trade practices, ensuring farmers receive better wages, adopt sustainable agricultural techniques, and access diverse markets beyond traditional trade partners. Future goals include:

• Diversification of Fair Trade Crops – Encouraging farmers to expand beyond bananas to cocoa, coffee, and root crops.
• Enhanced Training Programs – Providing ongoing farmer education on sustainable practices and market trends.
• Increased Market Opportunities – Seeking partnerships to expand the reach of Dominican fair trade products internationally.

By advocating for fair trade principles, the DNFTO continues to play an instrumental role in enhancing farmers’ economic well-being and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Dominica’s agricultural sector.