Tariş President: Cotton Producer is Going Through the Most Difficult Season.

Tariş: Cotton Production Crisis Is Approaching

Söke Tariş Cotton and Oilseeds Cooperative President İsmail Özer stated that cotton producers are experiencing one of the toughest seasons in recent years. Özer emphasized the necessity for the government to announce a new support model without delay in December-January.

Challenges of This Season

Özer expressed that the drop in cotton prices and decrease in yield have not satisfied producers, stating, "Even producers who achieve good yields cannot pay off their debts. This situation is not sustainable. Cotton producers across Turkey need to be supported with a new support model."

Parallel with World Markets

Özer mentioned that cotton prices are aligned with world markets, saying, "Cotton is not only an agricultural product but also the heart of the industry. The crisis in cotton creates a chain reaction from yarn to textiles. The government needs to intervene urgently."

Future of Producers at Risk

It has become inevitable for producers in the Söke Plain to turn away from cotton and focus on wheat cultivation. Özer noted, "Wheat cultivation is expected to cover at least 50% of the plain. High costs, low yields, and minimal profits are increasing the uncertainty for producers." He also warned, "If the current situation is maintained, Turkey will become more dependent on cotton imports."

Season's Figures

Özer indicated that the cotton purchase target set at the beginning of the season was 30-35 million kg, but they have only reached 22 million kg so far, stating, "95% of the cotton harvest has been completed. The decline in yield has affected our targets. This season, a production of 70-80 thousand tons of seed cotton is expected in the Söke Plain."