World Cotton Day 2025 – Cotton, the Fabric of Our Lives

[0:03]Cotton's journey begins at the dawn of civilization. Farmed, weave and brought to us in diverse forms, cotton is the world's most widely used natural fiber. No matter where we are, cotton touches our lives. It is a staple of the apparel and textile industries, but its uses extend far beyond fashion.

[0:30]Cotton can be used to produce food, feed, and energy. And its economic importance makes it a key export for some of the world's poorest regions. Worth billions, this diverse sector provides livelihoods for more than 100 million families, while half of the world's 24 million cotton farmers are women.

[0:58]Cotton faces significant challenges. Extreme weather events, price volatility, conflicts and geopolitical tension pose key threats. Currently, only 29% of cotton is being sustainably produced. There is a need to promote the development of cotton by-products, like edible oil and animal feed, to help farmers generate more income. By harnessing the power of science, innovation, and technology, along with increased targeted investments for farmers, we can promote sustainable growth. On the global stage, better governance and coherent policy making can benefit smallholder economies tied to the cotton trade. World Cotton Day is an opportunity to champion cotton and to shape a more sustainable future. For better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind.