Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of the World Trade Organization (WTO) lauded the pivotal role of various international entities in advancing the cotton value chain in C4+ countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire).
During a comprehensive review, DG Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude towards the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the Gherzi Textile Organization for their rigorous research funded by FIFA and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). “The studies demonstrate the WTO has a big role to play in continuing to bring this partnership together,” she commented, emphasizing the synergistic potential of such collaborations.
The Director-General highlighted the growing engagement of both the public and private sectors in the “Partenariat pour le Coton” initiative, noting its success in integrating key stakeholders like Afreximbank, the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA), and others. She expressed optimism about the inclusion of new partners such as the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and the Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) in the near future.
“Each of our partners can play a role,” said Okonjo-Iweala, referring to the diverse contributions ranging from financial support to skill training and infrastructure development. She underscored the critical findings from recent studies showing that despite challenges, the C4+ countries possess a significant potential to produce quality apparel domestically, which could lead to the creation of half a million direct jobs, particularly benefiting women and youth.
Further, she underscored the necessity for investment in infrastructures such as industrial parks, which are crucial for adding value within the cotton-apparel trade and enhancing regional integration in the African cotton industry.
An important aspect highlighted was the potential market opportunities in the sports apparel sector, with the global market valued at approximately USD 260 billion. “The WTO-FIFA led initiative is a vital step towards helping Africa capture a larger share of this lucrative market,” she added.
The day concluded with a joint declaration signed by representatives from AFC, ITFC, ITC, UNIDO, and WTO, reaffirming their commitment to invest in and support the cotton value chain development in African countries. This declaration is set to promote cooperation and private sector engagement aimed at boosting production capacity and establishing integrated regional hubs for sustainable textiles and clothing.
DG Okonjo-Iweala wrapped up the proceedings by reiterating the WTO’s commitment to advancing negotiations on cotton and agricultural reform, insisting, “We shouldn’t give up on [talks on] the Agriculture Agreement and the cotton initiative within it.” This bold stance marks a hopeful future for the cotton sector in Western and Central Africa.
