In the year 2019, a remarkable idea was born when four cotton producers from sub-Saharan Africa – Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Mali, known as the “Cotton Four” – proposed to the World Trade Organization to celebrate World Cotton Day on October 7th. This initiative aims to recognize the significance of cotton as a raw material and source of income for small-scale farmers in developing countries.

Cotton is a key commodity that grows in semi-arid regions around the equator and often represents the only economically viable crop. It serves as a cash crop and is crucial to the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. Jean-Paul Haessig, President of the Bremen Cotton Exchange, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating: “Every single piece of cotton textile deserves our appreciation, because many people from all over the world are behind it with their own hands` work.” Cotton not only has diverse applications in the fashion and textile industry but also plays a role in other sectors. It is comfortable, breathable, durable, and biodegradable. From cotton t-shirts and jeans to towels, bedding, and skincare products, cotton is ubiquitous. Furthermore, cotton literally nourishes people. Approximately 150m people in nearly 80 countries worldwide earn their livelihoods through the cultivation and preparation of cotton for the textile industry. Each cotton clothing item tells the personal story of a farmer.

World Cotton Day aims to highlight the importance of sustainable economic growth, productive full employment, and decent work for all. It reminds us of the importance of protecting and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on cotton production.

Further information can also be found on the website: www.baumwollboerse.de