According to figures released by Fairtrade international, around 5 billion Euro (US$6.6 billion) was spend by global consumers on Fairtrade certified products in 2011.

In the UK, shoppers spent 12% more on Fairtrade products in 2011 than they did in 2010.  Fairtrade sales in stores and restaurants grew by 24% in the Netherlands and retail sales of Fairtrade products increased by a total of 12% around the world.

Fairtrade products gained market share in established markets.  For example, more than half (55%) of all bananas bought in Switzerland bear the Fairtrade Mark.

Fairtrade  also enjoyed increased sales in newer markets.  Sales of Fairtrade certified products in the South African market was three times more in 2011 over 2010.  South African consumers can purchase Fairtrade products grown by farmers in their own country.

People in more than 120 countries can now purchase Fairtrade products. Sales across all the leading product grew steadily.

There are 1.2 million farmers and workers working at 991 Fairtrade certified producers organisations in 66 countries.  The farmers and workers earned an extra 65 million Euro in Fairtrade premium in addition to the income earned from sales. The money was spent on projects democratically decided upon including farm improvements and processing equipment, education and career training, community projects and healthcare.

Fairtrade label recognition has been growing in Australia as reported by Australian Food News on October 12, 2011.

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