The Indonesian textile sector is the world's sixth largest importer of Brazilian cotton, and this portion accounts for 9% of Brazil's total exports. As much as 41% of the total cotton imported by Indonesia comes from Brazil. “Indonesia is not only one of the main markets for Brazilian cotton in terms of volume, but most importantly, it is also the largest market share,” said Marcelo Duarte Monteiro, Director of International Relations, The Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (ABRAPA). Several Indonesian companies that collaborate with Brazilian Cotton include PT Gokak Indonesia, Danliris, Asian Cotton, Indorama, and Sritex.
Marcelo said demand growth from the Indonesian textile industry will continue to encourage the sector to combine recycled garments and responsible sourcing of raw materials in order to reduce their carbon footprint.
Brazil is committed to promoting cotton sustainability and environmental accountability, with 85% of Brazilian cotton certified by the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and the Responsible Brazilian Cotton Program (ABR).
In addition to ensuring that Brazilian cotton complies with international standards and regulations, many Brazilian cotton farms already employ the most advanced technology and cutting-edge agricultural practices to ensure high yields and doubling year-round to meet global export demand.
For example, cotton crops undergo fully automated harvesting and use agricultural drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to survey areas, monitor disease, and deliver chemical and biological products on farms.
"By implementing this, Brazilian cotton farming provides assurance for both the selling company (merchant) and the buyer, that raw materials are sourced from a sustainable system and effectively support consumer demands and needs," said Marcelo.
He added that he understands that there is still room for development and that cotton farmers in Brazil will continue to strive to meet the quality that buyers want.
ABRAPA and country partners work closely with cotton farmers, universities and related institutions, and invest in research and development to improve the quality of Brazilian cotton based on today's global demand.
