THE Australian Cotton Shippers Association (ACSA) and Cotton Australia (CA) have received a $692,456 grant from the Australian Government to explore markets with potential growth.

Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said the grant would play an important role in coordinating a plan for the future of Australia’s cotton industry.

“This grant will establish a long-term strategy for market diversification for the entire cotton industry,” Minister Littleproud said.

“This will explore as many options as possible to make Australian cotton a fibre of choice for textile manufacturers.

“It will look at markets with huge growth potential, like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Vietnam; it will also look at consumer education through digital platforms.

“The more consumers, brands and retailers understand about the sustainability and quality of Australian cotton, the more they can make informed decisions when buying.”

Boost to industry

Cotton Australia chief executive officer Adam Kay said market diversification was crucial in the next two years.

“We’re forecasting a good crop in 2021 and a huge crop in 2022 – 635,000 tonnes this year and 1 million tonnes next year,” Mr Kay said.

“Working closely with our customers, retailers and brands will increase demand for the sustainable high-quality cotton we produce and avoid stockpiling product.”

ACSA chairman Michael O’Rielley said the cotton industry was grateful for the chance to boost the industry.

“We know putting all your eggs in one basket isn’t a good idea – that’s just common sense and it’s been backed up by research,” Mr O’Rielley said.

“Market diversification is the way out of any future shocks, whether it’s market disruption or a global pandemic.”

Source: Minister for Agriculture