Bad weather and lack of inputs hamper cotton production

28 Jun '05

2 min read

Bad weather, and lack of quality inputs has hampered Tajikistan's cotton production for the year 2005. As a result, exports are expected to decrease.

According to USDA Foreign Agricultural Service report, cool and wet weather in early spring delayed cotton sowing in Tajikistan. Due to heavy rains, about 28,000 hectares had to be replanted.

Further, the lower temperature during early germination period has delayed maturation of plants for about 8-12 days. This has resulted in a delayed harvest.

As per USDA report, cotton consumption in Tajikistan for the year 2003 totaled to 28304 MT whereas the post estimate revised figures totaled to 21000 MT. The figures declared for the year 2004 numbered to 32659 MT, while the post estimate number totaled to 15000 MT. The forecast for the year 2005 is expected to be 15000 MT.

The production of seed cotton is expected to be 550,000 metric tones. Lint production is forecast at 160,000 metric tonnes. Last year's crop was on average about 14-20 days earlier than in 2003.

Use of Soviet-style land management practices, where cotton is grown entirely on irrigated land, has led to soil compaction, salinity problems and reduced production.

Most Tajik farmers do not rotate crops, which also results to deterioration of soil.

USDA

More Textiles News - Tajikistan...