Trade is about ordinary people and their jobs. It is often the only chance that poor people have to earn their way out of poverty.

But poor countries still face barriers to trading with richer countries. These barriers include high ‘tariffs’ – taxes charged at the border on imported goods. If the barriers came down tomorrow, poor countries could earn an extra £350 billion a year.

In 2005 world leaders pledged to make it easier for poor countries to export their goods to the West. After a disappointing start, the Doha round of world trade talks is back on track. It is making big strides towards a fairer international trading system. But there is still a long way to go.

Britain wants a system that reduces poverty for the many, not one that makes a profit for the few. So we are urging all countries to free exports from red tape and make trade fair for everyone.

Trade should work to benefit everyone, including the world’s poorest people.

You can make a difference in your daily shopping. Whether it's roses or bananas, coffee or wine, buying fairly traded goods will make sure producers in developing countries get a fair price.

• Find out more key facts about trade.
• Trade matters in the fight against world poverty. Learn more in our booklet (1.7 mb).