It is hard to not to appreciate the delicate symmetry of an Ecuadorian rose. Flower-buying Canadians agree; in 2013, 59 percent of Canada’s 130 million imported roses came from Ecuador. Another 39 percent, more than 50 million, came from Colombia. Roses make a classic romantic gift, but when you consider how workers endure low pay, long hours, dangerous conditions, and flaky contracts, the bouquet you hand out—no matter the occasion—could symbolize much more than your affection.
A history of strained labour relations
The South American cut-flower industry began making strides in the 1980s and 1990s, when flower producers shifted operations to take advantage of an optimal combination of climate, cheap labour, and free-trade policies created by the United States government in its war on drugs. Today, Colombian flower exports dominate the American market.
To read the rest of the story, please go to: The Canadian Fair Trade Network
