By Jones Gadama
The Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC) is set to earn over $800,000 (approximately K1.4 billion) from the export of 123 metric tonnes of cotton lint to Switzerland.
This development is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s foreign exchange needs.
The export earnings were revealed during a media engagement at ADMARC’s Ngabu Ginnery division in Chikwawa District.
According to Lovemore Mwantis, the division’s manager, the cotton lint is being exported to Switzerland, a country that has shown interest in Malawi’s cotton.
Malawi’s cotton is in high demand in several countries, including France, Switzerland, Bangladesh, and Brazil.
However, Mwantis noted that the 123 metric tonnes being exported to Switzerland is lower than the demand for the country’s cotton in these markets.
ADMARC has three cotton ginneries, namely Karonga, Balaka, and Ngabu, each with a 50,000 metric tonne capacity of unprocessed cotton. However, due to low production levels, only the Ngabu ginnery is currently operational.
The earnings from the cotton exports will contribute to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, which are essential for importing goods and services.
The export of cotton is one of the ways Malawi can earn foreign exchange, and ADMARC’s efforts in this regard are commendable.
The cotton industry in Malawi has the potential to grow, but it faces several challenges, including low production levels and limited access to markets.
ADMARC’s efforts to export cotton to countries such as Switzerland are a step in the right direction, and the corporation needs to continue exploring ways to increase production and access new markets.
The government and other stakeholders also need to support the cotton industry by providing farmers with access to inputs, extension services, and market information. This will help to increase production levels and improve the livelihoods of farmers who depend on cotton as a cash crop.
ADMARC’s cotton export earnings will contribute significantly to the country’s foreign exchange needs.
The corporation needs to continue exploring ways to increase production and access new markets to maximize the benefits of cotton exports.
With the right support and investments, the cotton industry in Malawi can grow and contribute to the country’s economic development.
The earnings from the cotton exports are a positive development for the country’s economy, and it is essential for ADMARC to continue working towards increasing production levels and exploring new markets for Malawi’s cotton.
By doing so, the corporation can help to improve the livelihoods of farmers and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
As the country continues to promote its cotton industry, it is essential to address the challenges that farmers and the industry face.
This includes providing support to farmers, improving infrastructure, and promoting market access.
By working together, Malawi can maximize the benefits of its cotton industry and contribute to the country’s economic development.
