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Cotton sector

Cotton processing

In cotton production, the quality of the product is determined not only in the field, but also during the processing stage. In Azerbaijan, the cotton processing process mainly includes post-harvest primary preparation, cotton cleaning, ginning (fiber separation), and yarn production stages.

Primary Processing

The harvested cotton is brought to processing facilities, where the moisture level is measured and seed-cotton is tested in the laboratory. Quality control is carried out based on the fiber’s length, strength, and cleanliness.

Currently, more than 20 cotton processing plants operate in Azerbaijan. The main ones include:

  • MKT IC plants (Saatly, Imishli, Barda)
  • Azərpambıq and Azərşəkər facilities
  • Private processing centers

During ginning, the fiber is separated from the seed. At this stage, modern technologies are applied to ensure quality preservation.

Azerbaijani cotton mainly has a medium fiber length (28–30 mm). In recent years, long-fiber varieties have also been cultivated in some regions. To improve quality, HVI laboratories have been established at the plants.

The processed cotton fibers are used domestically in yarn production and sent to textile enterprises in Sumqayit and Mingachevir. At the same time, a large portion is exported to foreign markets.

The ACPA and state institutions apply traceability systems, digital monitoring, and BCI standards in the processing stage. This approach both increases credibility in international markets and creates added value for farmers.

What is Better Cotton?