LOME, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The 22nd Annual Meetings of the African Cotton Association (ACA) opened on Tuesday in Lome, the capital of Togo, bringing together key stakeholders from across the continent's cotton sector to discuss challenges and explore ways to enhance productivity and competitiveness.

The four-day event, organized by the New Cotton Company of Togo (NSCT), was inaugurated by Tekize Madadozi, secretary-general of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Rural Development.

Participants will focus on addressing major issues facing the sector, including adapting to climate change, improving quality and traceability, and optimizing production systems. The meeting also aims to facilitate the exchange of experiences and the formulation of practical solutions.

"These meetings provide a valuable platform to share experiences and develop concrete responses to common challenges in the sector," said NSCT Director General Martin Drevon.

The event is being held alongside the 18th review meeting of the Regional Program for Integrated Cotton Production in Africa, against a backdrop of global market volatility, rising input costs, and increasing demands for quality and traceability.

ACA President Kassoum Kone noted that these changes require rapid adaptation through innovation, capacity building for producers, mechanization, and improved coordination across the value chain. He also stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships to support the structural transformation of the sector.

In Togo, cotton production has seen a revival in recent years, driven by sector reforms and efforts to better organize stakeholders, improve yields, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Founded in 2002, ACA aims to foster dialogue among cotton sector actors, promote sustainable development, and enhance the competitiveness of African cotton on international markets. ■