Summary
This report assesses the impact of Fairtrade on coffee smallholders and producer organisations (POs) in Indonesia, Mexico, Peru, and Tanzania against Fairtrade’s Theory of Change. The researchers use mixed methods to evaluate two POs in each country, drawing counterfactual comparisons between certified POs and non-certified control groups in the same geographic area, as well as developing a research protocol to support comparisons between countries. In-depth analysis is provided of the performance of Fairtrade interventions, outputs, outcomes and impacts; most were rated ‘good, but mixed performance’, with a few rated ‘very good’, and none rated ‘no change’ or ‘serious challenges’. In three of the four case study countries, certified producers were found to experience improved income, assets and standard of living, and Fairtrade was found to have positive effects on environmental sustainability and climate change resilience. A number of areas for improvement are identified, however it is recognised that cost will be a significant factor in limiting the implementation of recommendations.