Egyptian cotton production is at their highest in five years resulting in 45% export growth following emphasis on increasing awareness of sustainability. The responsible body has expressed that they have been supporting the implementation of “Egyptian Cotton Projects” as an initiative to substantially increase cotton production and export.
According to The Cotton Egyptian Association (CEA) “Egyptian Cotton Project” has been providing technical support and training workshops to 392 cotton farmers nationwide. They have also informed that those workshops were conducted on plant management, irrigation, IPM and harvesting of cotton. Besides, the Egyptian government and cotton traders have been providing many other facilities so that the CottonforLife and better cotton initiative can contribute to the advancement of global sustainability. CEA has also confirmed that the training and workshop is being facilitated by United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
The executive director of CEA has commented on the “Egyptian Cotton Project” saying that Egyptian cotton is the finest in the world. He also expressed that Egyptian cotton is not only the most sustainable cotton but also has a traceable and transparent supply chain with a positive impact from farmers to brands.
To gain sustainable cotton, Egypt has been adopting organic production methods. This initiative is also educating farmers to reduce water consumption and pesticides. Moreover, this project is also promoting work health and safety. The project is fostering gender equality along with facilitating entrepreneurial opportunities for youth.
Project data shows that the trial areas have seen a 30% increase in cotton yields due to adaptation of organic and sustainable farming. On the other hand, it also consumed 25-30% less water.
As a result of the sustainable cotton production practices, Egypt has drawn significant attention from global importers of cotton. According to The Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS), during the last quarter of this financial year (2018-2019) Egyptian farmers have produced 510,200 Metric quintals which is 218.8 percent increase in comparison to the previous 160,100 matric quintals.
