Cotton is one of the most important products for the Brazilian economy and one of the most exported in 2019. In this article, we’ll talk about some of the data surrounding its movement around the world and the difference between organic and sustainable cotton. Read on!
The movement of cotton
The first half of 2021 was very busy for cotton exports. In March, Brazil increased its exports of the product by 58%, which is approximately 221,948 tons. The countries that bought the most cotton were China, followed by Vietnam and Pakistan. 2020 was no different: around 479,000 tons of the product were exported.
Most of the cotton produced in Brazil comes from Mato Grosso. From there, it travels by road to the country’s main ports, especially the port of Santos in São Paulo.
The difference between organic and sustainable cotton
Although the terms suggest a certain similarity, they are not the same thing. What differentiates organic from sustainable is precisely the way in which it is grown.
Organic
Organic cotton does not allow the use of synthetic (chemical) fertilizers or pesticides in its production technique. It is usually grown on smaller plots of land, as it depends on natural factors to grow. For this reason, it ends up having a higher market value, reaching the end consumer at a higher price than if it were grown conventionally.
Sustainable
Sustainable cotton follows the traditional means of cultivation, using products and technologies that maintain the quality of the fiber. But to be considered sustainable, it follows 3 basic principles:
Social: in which the entire system involving institutions and companies must be respected, striving for decent relations and valuing the workers in the production chain;
Economic: where production constantly develops fair economic practices in favor of the development of the market ecosystem and the country.
Environmental: where production is obliged to preserve the environment in which it operates.
Ready to export?
Brazil is the second largest exporter of cotton in the world and our product is well accepted in many countries. If you need an efficient solution for your exports, talk to Superia. We specialize in importing and exporting textile products and our team carries out the entire process with total transparency and agility. Contact us and get a quote!