Egypt eyes global cotton leadership, hosts ICAC chief to boost sector growth

Egypt’s minister of investment and foreign trade, Hassan El-Khatib, met Eric Trachtenberg, Executive Director of the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC), to explore stronger collaboration in the cotton sector and support the country’s spinning and weaving industry.

El-Khatib said Egypt is developing a focused strategy for the textile industry, leveraging the superior quality of Egyptian cotton and the country’s geographic advantage. He stressed the importance of hosting the ICAC Annual Conference in 2026, calling it a strategic opportunity to promote Egypt’s progress in cotton and foster global partnerships.

He also advocated for the establishment of specialized textile universities to cultivate skilled talent essential for long-term industry sustainability. Highlighting rising international interest in Egypt’s ready-made garments sector, El-Khatib urged more investment in value-added production chains, boosted by existing trade agreements and customs benefits.

Trachtenberg shared ICAC’s initiative to launch a global platform for sustainable cotton trade and noted efforts to address regulatory barriers in European markets. He emphasized the need for credible data to support natural fibre industries and promote cotton’s role in environmental protection. The ICAC chief also stressed empowering rural women and curbing plastic pollution to enhance the image and demand for natural cotton worldwide.