Quick answerFair Trade is a third-party certification that sets minimum prices and premiums for farmer cooperatives. Direct trade is an informal approach where roasters build relationships with growers or local partners and buy with fewer middlemen, often paying above market for quality. Both aim to make coffee fairer; they work differently.
Fair Trade
- Certified, audited standards
- Price floor and community premium
- Focus on cooperatives
Direct trade
- Relationship-based, quality-driven
- Transparency depends on the roaster
Our approach
Al-Aqeeq works closely with sources in Yemen to bring authentic beans to the US. Our Haraaz "Fair Value" coffee reflects that goal.
Frequently asked questions
Is direct trade certified?
No single certification exists.
Which pays farmers more?
It varies; quality-focused direct trade can pay well above minimums.
Is Al-Aqeeq Fair Trade certified?
Contact us for sourcing details.
Choose Haraaz Fair Value.
Direct From Yemeni Farmers
Freshly Roasted to Order
Delivered Across the USA
Supporting Communities