Egypt suspends cotton imports

The Ministry of Agriculture has decided to suspend imports of all types of cotton to all companies expect for shipments prior to July 4.

Measures are underway to set up regulations and mechanisms in favor of cotton producers, manufacturers and importers in cooperation with the bodies concerned in Egypt, a statement released by the ministry on Tuesday said.

The decision aims to protect the local production of cotton and marketing-related problems, the statement said.

The statement referred to a plan that will help settle all problems pertaining to marketing along with the rehabilitation of weaving and textile factories to accommodate local cotton and turn it into high quality industries that cover the needs of producers.

The Ministry is keen on restoring the glory of the famous Egyptian cotton and at the same time improve the conditions of farmers, according to the statement.

The extra long staple Egyptian cotton has been the best worldwide for ages. However, modern technology has succeeded to develop other types of cotton to compete with the Egyptian cotton in terms of price. This has led to less demand on the Egyptian cotton even inside Egypt due to the available imported types at lower prices.