The International Sugar Trade and Sustainable Development: Curtailing the Sugar Rush

Abstract

This Article will examine the international sugar trade industry and the implementation of sustainable development practices to improve labor standards, establish fair trade, and enhance energy efficiency, as well as explore the impetus for corporate social responsibility. The international sugar trade is a colossal industry that has been operating for centuries. Sugar as a commodity is a major player in the agricultural sector, and the price of sugar impacts international markets from Europe to Asia and down into Latin America.

If the international sugar trade industry were to alter its farming, labor, and business practices, tremendous improvement of social, economic, and environmental conditions would be possible. Despite the volatility of the price of sugar, innovation in agricultural and corporate techniques in the international sugar trade would serve as the launching pad for new and sustainable development practices.

Keywords: Sugar, Sustainable Development, Corporate Best Practices, International Trade, Fair Labor, Biofuel