China, Asia's largest cotton producer and exporter, is determined to increase production and exports despite condemnations on global level on cotton production in Xinjiang. While authorities advocate cotton production in the Xinjiang region, deny allegations of human rights abuses and forced labor.
Mechanization in Cotton Harvesting Reached 89%
While the mechanization rate in cotton harvesting in Xinjiang increased dramatically from 21% in 2014 to 89% in 2023, it was stated that the production of Xinjiang cotton in 2023 was 5.11 million tons, with this figure representing 91% of the national yield and one fifth of global production.
This increase skyrocketed despite a decline in China's textile and clothing exports to the United States following increased enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.
While it is stated that the next step is to create a domestic cotton quality tracking system and certification system, with the aim of forming several domestic brands. Finally, it is stated that the Xinjiang cotton industry is actively expanding into foreign markets, especially to (Belt and Road Initiative- BRI) partner countries.
