Originally posted by qtiger
Think about it. If you're involved in fair international trade, then you'll be gaining (in trade or currency) what you're giving. So in terms of material worth things equal out. And if either side makes a profit then it's their gain at the other's expense. 
profit is gained at the other party's expense, but that doesn't always mean it wasn't a mutally beneficial transaction. maybe it's because i'm looking at it from a business to business point of view. nevermind.