EU imports of fresh fruit and vegetables has increased significantly over the past years. Developing countries play a major role in the supply: Latin American countries dominate the external EU import of fruit, whereas African countries are important suppliers of vegetables. Labour conditions vary greatly between suppliers.
Sustainable fruits & vegetables from Africa to AHOLD
AHOLD wishes to offer (more) sustainable produced fruits and vegetables from Africa in their supermarkets. FairMatch Support assists suppliers of Albert Heijn with the conversion of their existing supply chains into more environmentally and socially friendly supply chains. Next to that FairMatch Support also supports new (small-scale) producers to supply to Albert Heijn, either directly through their co-operatives or as contract farmers linked to larger producers. This is an opportunity for smallholders to be part of lucrative export chains.
Press release
Fairtrade Vegetables
There are also market requests for Fairtrade certification of out-of-season vegetables. FairMatch Support is currently collaborating with Max Havelaar Netherlands, ICCO and others to look into the possibility of introducing Fairtrade certified vegetables from Africa.
