For many years, farmers relied on local traders who offered unstable and often low prices. Limited access to training and markets made it difficult for families to improve their livelihoods.

In 2018, the cooperative joined the Fairtrade system. Through Fairtrade, farmers gained access to new markets, training in organic production and the Fairtrade Premium, an additional sum paid on top of the selling price that farmers invest collectively in community priorities.

Fairtrade Premium projects with strong impact

TICAL’s members democratically decide how the Fairtrade Premium is used through a committee representing both women and men farmers. Together, they have invested in several initiatives that strengthen livelihoods and improve community resilience.

1. Transport connecting farmers to markets

Transporting coconuts from scattered farms to the cooperative used to be difficult and time-consuming. Farmers often travelled one to three kilometres by motorcycle or horse, carrying only small quantities.

With Fairtrade Premium funds, the cooperative purchased a heavy-duty truck. Today it transports up to three tons of coconuts each week, reducing labour and transport costs while allowing farmers in remote areas to deliver their harvest more easily.

2. Protecting harvests with a secure warehouse

Sudden rain, heat and storms previously caused farmers to lose part of their harvest due to a lack of proper storage.

Using the Fairtrade Premium, TICAL expanded its warehouse, which can now store more than 20 tons of coconuts. The facility protects the harvest from weather damage and theft, helping farmers safeguard their income.

3. Planting trees for climate resilience

Malita is increasingly affected by extreme weather events such as flash floods and prolonged dry periods. To help protect farmland and communities, the cooperative launched a tree-planting initiative using Fairtrade Premium funds.

More than 500 Narra trees have been planted in vulnerable areas to reduce soil erosion, prevent landslides and strengthen local biodiversity.

4. Supporting farmers during the COVID-19 crisis

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many families faced reduced income and limited market access. TICAL used part of the Fairtrade Premium to distribute food packs to every member household and provide additional marketing capital to sustain coconut trading during this challenging period.

5. Sustaining Fairtrade certification

Maintaining Fairtrade certification is essential for access to international markets. When sales dropped during the pandemic, members allocated part of their Fairtrade Premium to help cover certification costs, ensuring the cooperative remained operational and connected to global markets.

Growing stronger together

Today, TICAL represents a community of 107 farmers (54 women and 53 men) working together to build a more stable and sustainable future.

Through investments in transport, storage, climate resilience and community support, the Fairtrade Premium is helping farmers strengthen their livelihoods and create new opportunities for their families and community.