Feb 12, 2025 (MarketLine via COMTEX) --
A roundtable conference co-hosted by sustainable cotton consultancy, CottonConnect, the Cotton Egypt Association (CEA), and the Cotton Research Institute has sought to advance regenerative cotton agriculture in Egypt with a focus on strategies to scale up sustainable practices in the industry.
The discussions highlighted the importance of brands offering financial and technical support, as well as opening markets for cotton farmers in Egypt adopting regenerative practices.AA
The conference brought together more than 70 industry leaders and experts from both the public and private sectors.A
The forum included presentations from representatives of the hosting organisations and a panel discussion with experts such as Khaled Schuman, CEO of CEA; Dr Abd ElNasser Radwan, director of the Cotton Research Institute; Dr Hesham Hamoud, consultant for CottonConnect; and Sara Berlese, chief technical coordinator at UNIDO.A
A key topic was the role of technological innovations and biotechnologies, such as precision agriculture, satellite imaging, biofertilisers, and bioinsecticides, in improving efficiency and productivity in cotton farming.A
EgyptaEUR(TM)s cotton industry, a key agricultural export contributing 3% to the countryaEUR(TM)s GDP, plays a crucial role in global supplies, accounting for 25-30% of Extra Long Staple (ELS) and Long Staple (LS) cotton.AA
However, the sector faces growing challenges due to climate change, including rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and a higher frequency of extreme weather events.A
CottonConnect CEO Alison Ward said: aEURoeWe are delighted to be able to bring together so many experts for this event to share their valuable insights and begin to create a roadmap that will ensure a more sustainable and successful future for Egyptian cotton and the global textile industryaEURA
Khaled Schuman added: aEURoeThe discussion at the roundtable was a step in the right direction towards improving regenerative practices for the sustainability of Egyptian Cotton. I feel optimistic about the future of the programme and what we can accomplish together.aEURA
The REEL Regenerative programme currently underway in Egypt aims to provide comprehensive insights into effective application of these practices across key cotton-growing regions. Regenerative agriculture's holistic approach not only seeks to address ecological concerns but also aims to support farmers' income diversification and climate resilience.A
Cotton Research Institute director Dr Abdel Nasser Radwan said: "Through collaboration with CottonConnect and the Cotton Egypt Association, we are not only sharing technical expertise but also ensuring that Egyptian cotton remains at the forefront of sustainability. Regenerative farming plays a crucial role in improving soil health, optimizing water consumption, enhancing biodiversity, and mitigating the impact of climate changeaEUR"reducing the use of chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, which ultimately improves farmers' livelihoods and safeguards the future of the industry. By strengthening our supply chain through innovation and training, we are paving the way for a more resilient and globally competitive cotton sector."A
In October last year, CottonConnect and the CEA formalised a memorandum of understanding (MOU), to increase awareness and expand regenerative cotton programs across Egypt, focusing on sustainability and the empowerment of local farmers.
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