The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) recently concluded its 82nd Plenary Meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, held from September 30 to October 3, 2024. The meeting gathered 460 participants, including representatives from 15 member governments, nine international organizations, and seven non-member countries. Key topics discussed included global partnerships for innovation in the cotton and textile value chains, with a focus on strengthening collaborative relationships throughout the cotton textile sector.
The ICAC highlighted various accomplishments and future initiatives in its Executive Director’s Report, including progress on agricultural development projects, sustainability efforts, and policy engagement. The committee also emphasized the importance of value addition in cotton-producing countries, urging them to shift from raw cotton exports to developing robust textile value chains. This transition could significantly boost economic potential and job creation.
A significant session focused on gene editing in cotton farming, showcasing how advanced technologies like CRISPR and RNA interference could address climate challenges and improve cotton farming’s resilience. The Plenary also examined global cotton market trends, noting a decrease in cotton production alongside rising consumption, which could lead to a buildup in cotton stocks if demand weakens.
Other discussions included the role of cotton in mitigating climate change through regenerative farming practices and the need for increased transparency and traceability in the cotton supply chain. The ICAC also emphasized the importance of empowering women in cotton farming and enhancing data collection for greater industry trust. The next Plenary Meeting will be hosted in Tanzania in November 2025.
ICAC expressed gratitude to Uzbekistan for its role as the host country, acknowledging its contributions to the event's success.
