Uzbekistan's cotton harvest in 2024 reached 3.8 million tons, marking the highest yield in the last 10 years. This achievement is attributed to agricultural reforms and the adoption of modern technologies implemented by the Uzbek government. However, experts note that despite this growth, the cotton sector still faces issues such as water scarcity, soil salinization, and financial difficulties for small-scale farmers.

According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, cotton production increased by 15% compared to the previous year, contributing significantly to the country's agricultural economy. A ministry representative stated: "This year's results demonstrate the effectiveness of new methods in cotton farming and support programs for farmers. But we still need to work on efficient water resource management and addressing environmental problems."

Experts point out that while the rise in cotton yield is positive, Uzbekistan's agricultural system requires profound changes for sustainable long-term development. Factors like limited water resources and the impact of climate change could threaten productivity in the future. There is also discussion on the need to reduce dependence on cotton exports and develop other agricultural products.

The government announced plans to diversify cotton farming and expand the use of renewable energy sources in the coming years. However, challenges in implementation are anticipated, including bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of financial resources. How these changes will affect living standards in rural areas remains unclear.

Source: www.bbc.com