Cotton industry unlikely to suffer negative growth
04 Mar '08
1 min read
After making a detailed study on future cotton production, experts opine that Australia is likely to produce nearly 7,20,000 tons of the crops by 2012-13.
Going with the current trend, strong demand and a deficiency in production would only lead to a further increase in the prices of cotton, even in the future. However, with improved irrigational facilities, the long standing shortage can surpass the 2007-08 harvest which was the lowest since 1982-83.
Moreover, the world cotton consumption is projected to grow by 25 percent, considering the increase in the needs of the developing countries and the mill consumption capacity in China. Besides, diminishing world trade barriers will also contribute to the growing demand for cotton.
Australia is therefore likely to plant more cotton, especially with the improvement in integrated pest resistance through the use of genetically modified (GM) cotton.
Although, climatic changes along with erratic rainfall are sure to have a long-term impact on cotton industry in Australia, no other factor can be an obstacle in enhancing the overall production.