Uzbek authorities have released official forecasts for the cotton harvest, yet the sector continues to face significant challenges. The projected yield for 2024 is 3.5 million tons, slightly above last year's figures, but factors such as climate change and water scarcity could negatively impact future outcomes.

The government leadership is implementing measures to modernize the cotton industry and diversify agriculture, but in practice, this process is progressing slowly. Experts emphasize that reliance on cotton monoculture poses economic risks and necessitates a shift to other crops.

Volatility in cotton prices on external markets and increasing global competition threaten Uzbekistan's export revenues. Additionally, labor issues and a lack of technological upgrades remain obstacles to improving efficiency.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, programs for efficient water resource use and new method adoption are being developed, but their results are still unclear. This raises doubts about the sustainability of the cotton harvest and its contribution to the national economy.

Source: www.dw.com