Fair trade is a crucial topic in global economics and sustainable development. It frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, often under the broader themes of international trade, economic inequality, or ethical consumerism. Based on past exam trends and current global issues, we can expect this topic to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a sample question and explore how to approach it effectively.
Fair Trade in Global Markets
Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Question
Some people believe that fair trade is essential for the development of global markets and the reduction of economic disparities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Understand the concept of fair trade
- Consider its impact on global markets and economic disparities
- Form an opinion on the importance of fair trade
- Provide reasons and examples to support your viewpoint
Sample Essay 1 (Band 7-8)
Fair trade has become an increasingly prominent concept in global economics, and I strongly agree that it plays a crucial role in the development of global markets and the reduction of economic disparities. This essay will explore the reasons behind this stance and provide examples to support this view.
Firstly, fair trade practices ensure that producers in developing countries receive a fair price for their goods, which is often higher than the standard market rate. This increased income allows farmers and artisans to invest in their businesses, improve their living standards, and contribute more significantly to their local economies. For instance, coffee farmers in Ethiopia who participate in fair trade programs have been able to send their children to school and invest in better farming equipment, leading to improved productivity and quality of life.
Moreover, fair trade promotes sustainable development by encouraging environmentally friendly production methods and discouraging exploitative labor practices. This approach not only benefits the producers but also contributes to the long-term health of global markets by ensuring a stable supply of goods and fostering consumer trust. The Body Shop, a multinational company, has successfully implemented fair trade practices in sourcing ingredients, demonstrating that ethical business models can be both profitable and sustainable on a global scale.
Additionally, fair trade helps to reduce economic disparities by empowering marginalized communities and providing them with access to global markets. By cutting out exploitative middlemen and establishing direct trade relationships, fair trade organizations enable small-scale producers to compete on a more level playing field. This is evident in the handcraft sector, where artisans in countries like India and Peru have gained international recognition and fair compensation for their skills through fair trade partnerships.
However, it is important to acknowledge that fair trade alone cannot solve all economic disparities. Critics argue that it may sometimes create dependence on specific markets or buyers. Nevertheless, when implemented thoughtfully and in conjunction with other development initiatives, fair trade can be a powerful tool for economic empowerment and market development.
In conclusion, fair trade is indeed essential for the development of global markets and the reduction of economic disparities. By ensuring fair prices, promoting sustainable practices, and empowering marginalized producers, it contributes significantly to a more equitable global economy. As consumers and policymakers become increasingly aware of the importance of ethical trade, the role of fair trade in shaping global markets is likely to grow even further.
(Word count: 391)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that fair trade is important for global markets and reducing economic differences. This essay will discuss why I think this is true.
Firstly, fair trade helps farmers and workers in poor countries get better prices for what they sell. This means they can earn more money and improve their lives. For example, coffee farmers in South America who are part of fair trade programs can afford better food and education for their families. This is good because it helps reduce poverty in these countries.
Secondly, fair trade encourages companies to be more responsible. They have to follow rules about treating workers well and not damaging the environment. This is important because it makes global trade more sustainable in the long run. Many big companies like Starbucks now use fair trade products, which shows it can work on a large scale.
Another reason fair trade is important is that it helps small producers compete with big companies. Without fair trade, small farmers might not be able to sell their products in global markets. Fair trade organizations help these small producers reach customers around the world. This makes global markets more diverse and fair.
However, some people say that fair trade is not perfect. They think it might not help all poor farmers, only a few. Also, fair trade products can be more expensive, which means not everyone can buy them.
In conclusion, I believe fair trade is very important for global markets and reducing economic differences. It helps poor producers earn more, makes companies more responsible, and gives small producers a chance in global markets. While it may have some problems, overall, fair trade is a good way to make global trade fairer and more sustainable.
(Word count: 284)
Writing Tips for This Topic
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Vocabulary: Use a range of relevant terms related to trade and economics. For band 7-8, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases.
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Grammar:
- Band 7-8: Use a variety of complex structures, such as conditionals and relative clauses.
- Band 6-7: Focus on using simple and compound sentences correctly, with some complex structures.
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Structure: Ensure a clear introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences, and a conclusion.
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Examples: Provide specific, real-world examples to support your arguments.
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Coherence: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly.
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Critical Thinking: For higher bands, demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the topic, acknowledging potential counterarguments.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Fair trade (noun) – /feər treɪd/ – a way of buying and selling products that ensures the original producer receives a fair price
- Economic disparity (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk dɪˈspærəti/ – significant difference in economic well-being between individuals or groups
- Sustainable development (noun) – /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – economic development conducted without depletion of natural resources
- Marginalized communities (noun) – /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪzd kəˈmjuːnətiz/ – groups of people who are excluded from mainstream social, economic, or cultural life
- Ethical consumerism (noun) – /ˈeθɪkl kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/ – buying products that are ethically produced and/or environmentally friendly
- Global supply chain (noun) – /ˈɡləʊbl səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/ – the network between a company and its suppliers to produce and distribute a specific product
- Market access (noun) – /ˈmɑːkɪt ˈækses/ – the ability of a company or country to sell goods and services across borders
- Economic empowerment (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ – the process of increasing the capacity of individuals or groups to make choices and to transform those choices into desired actions and outcomes
Conclusion
The importance of fair trade in global markets is a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. It touches on various aspects of international economics, ethics, and sustainable development. When writing about this topic, focus on the impact of fair trade on producers, consumers, and global market dynamics. Consider discussing both the benefits and potential limitations of fair trade practices.
For future practice, you might encounter questions that ask about:
- The role of consumers in promoting ethical trade practices
- The impact of fair trade on developing countries’ economies
- The challenges of implementing fair trade on a global scale
- The relationship between fair trade and environmental sustainability
Remember to support your arguments with relevant examples and maintain a balanced perspective in your essay.