Over the past decade, cotton production in Africa has fluctuated with periods of both growth and decline. The year-on-year variations reflect a sector that has experienced significant volatility due to a range of factors, including climatic variations and market conditions. For instance, there was a notable decline in production in 2015, followed by a recovery in 2016, illustrating the sector's inherent instability.
From 2021 to 2023, cotton production saw modest year-on-year growth of approximately 0.2% each year, reaching 1.5351 Million Metric Tons in 2023. This period of stability suggests a more resilient sector emerging after past volatility.
Looking ahead, the forecast indicates a steady, albeit slow, growth in cotton production with an average CAGR of 0.16% from 2024 to 2028. By 2028, production is projected to reach 1.551 Million Metric Tons, showing a forecasted 5-year growth rate of 0.82%.
Future trends to watch include technological advancements in agriculture, policy changes, and climate impacts. Increased investment in sustainable farming practices and supply chain optimization could further stabilize and possibly enhance production growth.