Cotton Cultivation. Products, Markets and Sustainability Issues

The cotton plant has a long history (see box Short history of cotton). Since the industrial revolution in the 19th century, it has been the world's leading textile plant. Today, it is grown on every continent, in some sixty countries. Thanks to its cellulose fiber and oleoproteaginous seeds, its main industrial outlets are in the textile, food and cosmetics sectors.

In tropical and subtropical regions, cotton is still an important cash crop for small producers. And for many developing countries, the products derived from its harvest, particularly the fiber, are among the most important exports, providing a significant source of commercial income.

In these regions, cotton is also a major component of cropping systems integrating food crops. Strengthening cotton-based cropping systems in developing countries, through research and support for producers, thus contributes to the development and food self-sufficiency of these countries' populations.

Last but not least, the global focus on the sustainability of cotton growing is driving changes in farming practices. Among other things, the trend is towards reducing pesticide doses, eliminating the most dangerous products and developing more environmentally-friendly techniques for controlling bio-aggressors (diseases, pests, weeds). These developments are accompanied by the introduction of environmental, economic and social indicators.

Based on technical-economic conditions and key global production figures, the aim of this article is to review the current challenges facing the cotton industry, and to highlight the changes needed to improve its sustainability. The point of view presented is that of French cotton research, oriented towards developing countries, with a focus on Africa.