Getting your coffee tomorrow is not a given. Behind everyday products like coffee, bananas, and cocoa lies a global trading system under pressure. A pressure shaped by climate change, economic uncertainty, and growing inequality. The need to change how we value our food is urgent or we risk our daily coffee, and midmorning snack. Listen in to this podcast episode to hear from Social Impact Pioneer Marike Runneboom de Peña, Interim CEO of Fairtrade International, about why this moment is a turning point for fair trade and global supply chains.
From sociologist to co-founder of a banana cooperative with over 200 members in the Dominican Republic, Marike is now the interim leader of Fairtrade International.
March 2026 is important for Fairtrade as they launch a new Global Strategy 2026–2028, focusing on three urgent priorities: sustainable livelihoods for farmers and workers; resilient and fair supply chains; and a stronger collective commitment to ethical and sustainable trade.
Listen in as, together, we explore:
- Why fair trade is more critical than ever in today’s volatile global economy
- The real challenges farmers face, from low prices and unfair trading practices to climate change
- How Fairtrade’s new strategy aims to create long-term resilience and equity in global supply chains
- What businesses, policymakers, and consumers must do to support fair and sustainable trade
In addition, hear from Marike as she shares her personal journey, from working directly with farming communities to stepping into a global leadership role. Learn about motivation, perseverance, and focus. This podcast conversation is grounded in the devastating impacts of an unequal trading system and the resilience of farmers determined to overcome them.
This conversation challenges the idea that sustainability is optional. As Marike explains, “Fairer trade is not just a future goal, it’s a shared responsibility.” Without meaningful action, we risk a very near future where farming becomes unsustainable, supply chains break down, and essential products disappear from our shelves.
If you’re interested in sustainability, ethical business, global trade, or the future of food systems, this episode is essential listening.
Because when trade doesn’t work for farmers and workers, it doesn’t work for anyone.
Links
