The importance of the fibre to the global textile industry shaped the work agenda in London and Brussels this week
The escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, alongside new European legislation on imported products, are just two elements of the international context currently affecting the global textile industry — and, consequently, Brazilian cotton. In response to this scenario, the Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa), through Cotton Brazil initiative, carried out an extensive work agenda in Europe this week, focused on advocating for cotton within the global textile matrix.
The message was delivered to environmental organisations, textile sector bodies, European legislators and policy-makers. The Brazilian delegation comprised ten representatives from Abrapa, the National Association of Cotton Exporters (Anea), the Bahia Cotton Growers Association (Abapa), and the Mato Grosso Cotton Growers Association (Ampa).
“The future of the global textile and fashion industry can be more sustainable and responsible with the contribution of cotton. It is a natural, renewable, biodegradable fibre, with a lower environmental footprint and no risk to human health,” stated Gustavo Piccoli, president of Abrapa.
The agenda included meetings in London (England) and Brussels (Belgium). Organisations such as Textile Exchange, Make The Label Count (MTLC), Better Cotton, and the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) were visited. The Brazilian delegation also met with the Brazilian embassies in both London and Brussels, as well as with Brazil’s agricultural attachés in the two cities.
Marcelo Duarte, Abrapa’s Director of International Relations and responsible for Cotton Brazil — an initiative that promotes Brazilian cotton globally — regarded the European agenda as highly positive. “We have a close, solid relationship with the global textile industry. We must build the same kind of relationship with decision-makers in the European market. This week, we made important progress in this medium to long-term project,” noted Duarte.
Brazil is a key player in the global textile and fashion market. It is currently the world’s third-largest producer of lint, behind China and India. In the 2023/24 marketing year, it became the world’s leading exporter of the fibre and has maintained its position as the main supplier of Better Cotton-certified lint — a global initiative promoting more sustainable cotton farming practices.