The Asia Pacific region is a major player in global cotton production, contributing around 60% of the world's total cotton output. Sustainable cotton production in the Asia Pacific region has also seen significant growth, with India, Pakistan, and China as the leading countries. In 2022, about 25% of the region's cotton production was certified as sustainable with India accounting for nearly 50% of the world’s organic cotton production. Exports of sustainable cotton from the region have risen, with around 15% of cotton exports in 2022 coming from sustainably certified sources

WEAVING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IN ASIA!

Fairtrade Cotton Production and Sale

Fairtrade cotton production in the region has experienced steady growth in recent years, spurred by a rising global demand for ethically sourced, sustainably produced cotton. India stands out as the largest producer, accounting for over 76% of total seed cotton production between 2019 and 2022, with Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan also contributing significantly.

Fairtrade cotton production is also witnessing growth in organic cotton farming, as the dual certification of organic and Fairtrade cotton presents an attractive option for brands focusing on both environmental and social impact. The sector's potential for growth lies in expanding the Fairtrade model to more regions, improving productivity through sustainable farming practices, and further integrating Fairtrade cotton into global supply chains.

In 2022, over 11,000 metric tons of cotton were sold under Fairtrade terms, with India leading sales at 71%, and the remaining 29% generated by smaller growing regions in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan. Notably, 52% of the cotton was sold as organic, reflecting a robust consumer and business demand for environmentally sustainable cotton, while 48% was sold as conventional.

Overview of Cotton Producers

Fairtrade-certified cotton is produced by 1600 smallholder farmers and workers supported through 16 Fairtrade producer organisations across 04 countries in Asia. 

Current challenges

Cotton is one of the world’s biggest crops and a commodity many of us rely on. But there are a number of challenges threatening its long-term sustainability. 

• Low incomes. Many cotton farmers depend on the middlemen who buy their cotton, often at prices below the cost of production. Cotton prices on the international market are also volatile.
• Environmental issues. For example, agrochemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides, and the excessive use of water put fresh water supplies for local communities at risk.
• Climate crisis. Unpredictable weather conditions, higher temperatures, pests and diseases can make cotton farming unpredictable and costly.
• Health and safety. The incorrect handling of hazardous chemicals among farmers and workers can result in major health issues. There are also unsafe and unfair labour conditions in cotton processing and textile factories.
• Child labour and forced labour. Child labour is most prominent on small-scale farms, particularly at planting and harvesting times. State-controlled forced labour has also been documented.

WHY CHOOSE FAIRTRADE COTTON?

Fairtrade certification ensures that every cotton product you purchase is grown under ethical conditions, adhering to rigorous standards for both environmental sustainability and social fairness. In countries like India, Pakistan, and Central Asia, where smallholder farmers dominate cotton production, Fairtrade provides a critical framework that ensures fair prices and improved working conditions. With every product made from Fairtrade cotton, you're contributing to a brighter future for farming communities.

• Sustainable Agricultural Practices:  Fairtrade standards require farmers to use sustainable agricultural practices. This includes reducing the use of harmful pesticides, promoting organic cotton farming, and implementing measures to conserve soil and water—an especially important factor given the water-intensive nature of cotton production. The result is a cleaner environment and better living conditions for communities. Fairtrade cotton production in the region is also witnessing growth in organic cotton farming, as the dual certification of organic and Fairtrade cotton presents an attractive option for brands focusing on both environmental and social impact.
• Climate Resilience: Farmers supported by Fairtrade NAPP receive training in climate-smart agriculture practices. These practices help mitigate the effects of climate change, improve soil health, and promote biodiversity. Farmers are also taught how to build resilience against extreme weather conditions, ensuring that they can continue farming sustainably for future generations, ensuring the long-term viability of cotton farming.
• Protection against Price Fluctuation:

1. The Fairtrade Minimum Price provides protection against the volatility of global cotton markets. This ensures that farmers can cover the costs of sustainable production even during times of market downturns, enabling financial security.
2. The Fairtrade Premium. In addition to a fair price, farmers earn an extra premium, which is democratically managed and reinvested into community development projects. This allows farmers to decide on projects like improving agricultural infrastructure, fostering long-term economic resilience in their communities. A portion of Premium goes towards improving cotton production and quality.

• Capacity Building and Skill Development: Fairtrade NAPP provides training and capacity building for farmers in financial literacy, sustainable farming practices, and entrepreneurial skills. These programs help producers improve their business management, increase productivity, and maximize their profit margins, enabling them to invest further in their farms and communities.
• Prohibition of Child Labour: The Fairtrade Standards strictly prohibit child labour in all forms, in accordance with the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions. These standards are designed to protect children and ensure their well-being, especially in sectors like cotton farming where child labour has historically been prevalent. Fairtrade NAPP works closely with cotton producers to ensure that child labour is prohibited in the supply chain and that cotton production is done in a way that upholds children's rights and safety.
• Community Empowerment: Through the Fairtrade Premium, cotton farming communities are empowered to decide how to invest in social projects that directly benefit their well-being. These projects may include building educational institutions, improving access to clean water, or establishing healthcare services. The premium strengthens social infrastructure, creating healthier and more resilient communities.
• Gender Equality and Empowerment: Fairtrade NAPP places a strong emphasis on gender equality in cotton farming. Initiatives like the Fairtrade NAPP Gender Leadership School support women in agriculture by providing them with leadership and business skills, encouraging female participation in decision-making, and promoting equal opportunities. This enables women farmers and workers to contribute meaningfully to their communities and achieve economic independence.

Support Farmers. Choose Fairtrade Cotton.

Every time you choose Fairtrade cotton, you're making a difference in the lives of farmers across Asia. By supporting ethical cotton production, you're helping to create a sustainable and just future for farmers and their communities.

For more information write to us at comms@fairtradenapp.org