1. principle of mutual assistance
The essence of this partnership does not lie in trade itself, but in the friendly relationship between people. Therefore, both producers and consumers should support each other on the basis of mutual understanding: This relationship should be built by reflecting on past experiences.
2. principle of planned production
In consultation with consumers, producers should aim to produce the maximum quantity and variety of products within the capacity of the farms.
3. principle of acceptance of the products
Consumers should accept all products grown in accordance with the prior agreement between the two groups, and their diet should be based as far as possible on these products.
4. principle of mutual accommodation when setting prices
When setting the price of produce, producers should consider the labor and cost savings of eliminating sorting and packaging and accepting all produce; and consumers should consider the benefit of receiving fresh, safe and tasty food.
5. principle of deepening friendly relations
The continuous development of this partnership requires the deepening of friendly relations between producers and consumers. This can only be achieved by maximizing contact between the partners.
6. principle of self-distribution
According to this principle, the transportation of the products should be carried out either by the groups of producers or consumers to the depots of the latter, without having to rely on professional transport companies.
7. principle of democratic administration
Both groups should avoid overdependence on a limited number of leaders in their activities and try to practice democratic management with responsibility for all. The special conditions of the members' families should be taken into account on the basis of the principle of mutual aid.
8. principle of learning within the groups
Both groups, producers and consumers, should attach great importance to learning within their groups and try not to limit their activities to the distribution of safe food.
9. principle of maintaining the appropriate group size
Full implementation of the points mentioned in the articles above will be difficult if the membership or territory of these groups becomes too large. Therefore, both should be kept at an appropriate size. The development of this movement in terms of membership should be promoted by increasing the number of groups and cooperation among them.
10. principle of continuous development
In most cases, neither producers nor consumers will be able to work under the good conditions described above from the outset. It is therefore necessary for both to look for promising partners, even if their current situation is unsatisfactory, and to continue their efforts to develop in mutual cooperation.
Japanese Organic Farming Association, November 1978.
Copied from http://www.joaa.net