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This paper proposes a heuristic model that aims to render more visible tensions concerning the role of business or the invisible hand of the market with respect to development. Fair trade is used as an exemplar to explore the relevance of this model, highlighting the tensions apparent in using the market, particularly instruments such as standards and certificates as a vehicle to promote development. It concludes by highlighting the need to hold open and to value the space of politicisation and contestation in the relationship between business and development, if business is to contribute to the more systemic and radical aspirations that underlie development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]