The cotton harvest season, a key agricultural activity for Uzbekistan, has officially commenced across various regions of the country. Agriculture Minister Ibrahim Abdurakhmanov visited the Fergana region, where he met with farmers and workers involved in the cotton picking, discussing their working conditions and wages.

In his address, the minister emphasized the government's efforts to modernize the cotton industry and improve labor conditions. He also highlighted the need to update the machinery and methods used in cotton harvesting, which is expected to enhance productivity and reduce labor costs.

However, some observers point out that persistent issues, such as the use of child labor and low wages for workers, remain unresolved. While the government has pledged to implement legal measures to address these concerns, practical outcomes have been limited so far.

Cotton plays a vital role in Uzbekistan's economy, contributing significantly to export revenues. Thus, the harvest season is crucial for the country's economic development. The minister's visit underscores the government's focus on this sector, but further actions are needed to ensure efficiency and fair labor practices.

Source: www.aljazeera.com