According to Oxfam, 40 per cent of the world's population lives on less then HK$15 per day. Yet the accumulated income of the top 10 per cent of the population accounts for half of the total income of the world population.

The unfair distribution of wealth prompted the rise of Fairtrade communities. For a populated area to gain Fairtrade status, an administrative body such as the city council or a school board must pass a resolution to support Fairtrade.

Fairtrade tea, coffee or other refreshments have to be served during meetings or in office canteens. Products bearing the Fairtrade label have to be available in the local stores, and must also be used in a certain specified number of work places and community organisations, such as churches.