Cotton Brazil Luncheon presented outlooks for upcoming crops, strategies for the sector and an initiative to promote natural fibers
Brazilian cotton growers, representatives of the textile industry, traders and organizations from different countries attended the Cotton Brazil Luncheon, held in Istanbul, Türkiye, on October 13. The aim is to strengthen relationships with international partners, present the outlook for Brazilian cotton production and expand dialogue on the challenges and opportunities of the global market.
The event preceded ICA Trade Event Istanbul 2026, one of the leading international gatherings of the cotton community, held on October 14 and 15. The program is expected to bring together more than 600 delegates from different countries, with presentations by industry experts and sessions dedicated to sharing knowledge and experiences.
According to Fernando Rati, Head of Business and International Relations at the Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa), the Cotton Brazil Luncheon represents a strategic opportunity to engage with professionals working across different stages of the cotton supply chain.
“This was the largest event in terms of attendance that we have ever organized alongside the ICA Trade Event program. Traditionally, we bring together opinion leaders and key, highly strategic players from every link in the supply chain, who come from various countries to attend the event organized by the International Cotton Association. For Cotton Brazil, above all, it is an opportunity to receive feedback on where we need to improve and where we are doing well, from the perspective of our partners, buyers and customers,” he said.
Outlook for upcoming cotton crops
The Cotton Brazil Luncheon program featured two panels dedicated to the current landscape and outlook for Brazilian cotton in the international market. The first presented the results of the 2025/26 crop, with production estimated at approximately 4.1 million metric tons of cotton lint, a record volume, as well as projections for 2026/27. The presentation also covered indicators related to planted area, fiber quality and sustainability.
The second panel, presented by Marcelo Duarte of Abrapa, addressed strategies to strengthen competitiveness and expand the presence of Brazilian cotton in the international market. The presentation highlighted three pillars of action: competitive supply, reputation and preference for Brazilian cotton, and initiatives to promote and expand the use of natural fibers.
Among the topics discussed was the need to raise awareness of the impacts of synthetic fibers and strengthen cotton’s role in the choices made by the industry and consumers. In this context, the “Microplastic Is the End of the Line” movement was presented. The initiative seeks to increase awareness of the presence of these particles in everyday life and encourage more responsible choices.
Brazilian representation in Istanbul
The Brazilian delegation in Istanbul includes representatives from Abrapa, the National Association of Cotton Exporters (ANEA) and ApexBrasil. Abrapa President Gustavo Piccoli opened the Cotton Brazil Luncheon, highlighting the growth of Brazilian cotton exports and the role of international promotion.
“In 2024, we became the world’s largest cotton exporter, a goal that Cotton Brazil had set for 2030 and that we achieved six years ahead of schedule,” Piccoli said.
Abrapa is also represented by Vice President Celestino Zanella and other directors and board members of the association. ANEA is represented by President Dawid Wajs and Vice President Ariel Coelho. ApexBrasil is represented by Rafaela Albuquerque, a specialist in the Agribusiness Management Department.
About Cotton Brazil
Cotton Brazil is an initiative of Abrapa, ANEA and ApexBrasil aimed at promoting Brazilian cotton in the international market. The program seeks to expand the presence of Brazilian cotton in key consumer markets, strengthen relationships with buyers and representatives of the textile industry, and showcase the attributes of Brazilian cotton, with an emphasis on quality, competitiveness and responsible production.
