24.04.2026 8th National Cotton Summit Brought Industry Stakeholders Together Under the Theme ‘Critical Threshold in Turkish Cotton’

The 8th National Cotton Summit, organized under the theme “Critical Threshold in Turkish Cotton,” brought together key stakeholders of the cotton and textile industries to discuss the current challenges facing the sector and future-oriented strategies.

The summit commenced with opening remarks by Fevzi Çondur, Chairman of the Board of the National Cotton Consey, followed by speeches from İhsan Emiralioğlu and Dr. Süleyman Elban.

In his address, Fevzi Çondur emphasized the importance of evaluating the current state of the cotton industry, developing solutions to existing challenges, and addressing strategic issues for the future. He underlined that despite Türkiye’s limited cultivation areas, the country holds a significant position in global cotton production, highlighting the importance of sustainable and traceable production practices.

Deputy Director General İhsan Emiralioğlu noted that rainfall levels recorded during the first four months of 2026 exceeded those of the previous two years, increasing expectations for a productive agricultural season. He stated that cotton is among the 13 strategic agricultural products designated by the Ministry and emphasized that Türkiye distinguishes itself globally through high-quality, GMO-free cotton production. Emiralioğlu also pointed out that Türkiye ranks among the top three countries worldwide in cotton yield per unit area, adding that seed cotton yield increased from 353 kilograms per decare in 2002 to approximately 480 kilograms, significantly above the global average. He further announced that cotton support payments would increase from 1,098 TRY per decare in 2025 to 1,395 TRY for 2026.

Governor Dr. Süleyman Elban highlighted the need to reduce production costs, particularly through improved irrigation techniques and more conscious use of agricultural chemicals. He stressed the importance of slowing the decline in cotton farming and called on sector representatives to focus on rapid and practical solutions.

The summit continued with two panel sessions. The first session focused on “Problems and Solution Proposals in Domestic Cotton Production,” while the second session addressed “The Competitiveness of Turkish Textiles in the Global Market,” featuring leading representatives from the agriculture, textile, and export sectors.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Fevzi Çondur and a plaque presentation ceremony honoring sponsors and speakers who contributed to the summit. Throughout the program, sponsor companies also showcased their products and services at exhibition stands established within the summit venue.