Uzbekistan's cotton harvest in 2024 has achieved record-breaking figures in the country's history, highlighting the effectiveness of agricultural reforms. According to the State Statistics Committee, the yield reached 3.8 million tons, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year. This result is particularly notable in the Fergana Valley and Kashkadarya region, where modern irrigation technologies and new crop varieties have been implemented.

The government leadership is implementing a series of measures to diversify cotton farming and enhance environmental sustainability. As stated by Shavkatjon Rahimov, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture, "We are working to reduce cotton acreage and increase other crops, such as vegetables and fruits, which contributes to economic resilience and environmental protection." This policy also focuses on efficient water resource use and soil fertility preservation.

However, challenges in the sector, including labor issues and volatility in global market prices, cast a shadow over these achievements. Some experts emphasize that manual labor is still widely used in cotton harvesting, and there is a need to strengthen worker rights protections. Additionally, declining international cotton prices could impact Uzbekistan's export revenues, complicating future planning efforts.

Overall, the 2024 cotton harvest reflects positive shifts in Uzbekistan's agriculture, but persistent difficulties require attention for sustainable development. The government's efforts toward diversification and technological upgrades may stimulate economic growth, yet social and environmental concerns must be carefully addressed.

Source: uznews.uz