Better Cotton and Cotton Egypt Association (CEA), the organization responsible for the promotion and protection of Egyptian cotton worldwide, announced a new strategic partnership to expand the Better Cotton program in Egypt.
The program was first launched in 2020 by the Egyptian Cotton Project, implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and funded by the Italian Development Cooperation Agency and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC). This collaboration aims to further strengthen the sustainability and quality of Egyptian cotton production while ensuring fair working conditions for farmers.
Egyptian cotton is recognized worldwide for its exceptional quality, softness and durability. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, it has become a symbol of luxury and excellence in the textile industry. However, in recent years, challenges such as climate change, water scarcity and fluctuating market demands have posed significant threats to the sustainability of Egyptian cotton cultivation.
Recognizing the need for proactive measures to safeguard the future of Egyptian cotton, the CEA has partnered with Better Cotton in Egypt. Through this renewed strategic partnership, the two parties will work together to expand the implementation of sustainable farming techniques, provide additional training and support to farmers, and ensure compliance with rigorous environmental and social standards. By adopting these practices, Egyptian cotton farmers will be helped to reduce their water consumption, decrease the use of chemical pesticides and improve soil health, ultimately leading to more sustainable and resilient cotton production.
Additionally, this partnership will allow CEA to leverage Better Cotton’s extensive network of industry stakeholders, including brands, retailers and textile mills committed to sourcing sustainable cotton. This collaboration will further facilitate market access for Egyptian cotton products, ensuring a fair income for farmers and supporting the growth of the Egyptian textile industry.
“We are excited about this strategic partnership with Better Cotton in Egypt,” said Khaled Schuman, CEA’s Executive Director. “By combining our expertise and resources, we can drive positive change in Egyptian cotton farming practices and secure a sustainable future for our industry. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision to globally authenticate the legacy of Egyptian cotton.”
Alan McClay, Chief Executive Officer of Better Cotton, commented: “Egypt’s cotton is globally renowned, and our renewed strategic partnership with Cotton Egypt Association will allow us to build on our work to make cotton farming in the country a more climate resilient, environmentally friendly and responsible activity. We look forward to working with CEA to help Egyptian cotton communities survive and thrive, while protecting and restoring the environment.”
Better Cotton and Cotton Egypt Association are confident that this strategic partnership will contribute to the long-term viability and competitiveness of Egyptian cotton, while also addressing the growing demand for sustainable and ethically produced textiles.
