As the cotton marketing season 2017-18 has begun in Zimbabwe, the government is hopeful of production reaching 110,000 kg, compared to output of 30,000 kg last season.
Cottco, the country’s sole authorised cotton buyer, has set aside $44 million to buy the crop. Cottco has set up 433 buying points across the country where farmers can sell their produce.
The expected increase in production can be attributed to the steps taken by the government to revive the industry. To boost cotton production, the government provided $36 million worth of inputs free of cost to growers during 2016-17 cropping season.
The government has also taken over Cottco, the cotton company of Zimbabwe, in its effort to re-establish itself as a major player in production of the crop.
During the current buying season, Cottco would initially pay 40 cents per kg, and after grading the crop it will pay grade related additional grade related price adjustment of 15 cents for Grade A, 10 cents for Grade B and 5 cents for Grade D. It will not pay any adjustment price to Grade D cotton.
Thus, cotton growers can expect to receive price between 40 cents per kg to 55 cents per kg depending on the quality (grade) of their cotton, according to Cottco. (RKS)