Parliamentary Concern as Uganda’s Cotton Production Plummets

Lawmakers on the Committee on Tourism, Trade and Industry have expressed deep concern over the declining trends in Uganda’s cotton subsector. Despite being a traditional producer of high-quality cotton, the country continues to grapple with falling yields and a heavy dependence on imported fabrics and apparel.

Appearing before the committee, Denis Ainebyona, the Commissioner for Industry at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, revealed that production peaked at 115,975 bales in the 2022/2023 financial year. However, output dropped drastically to 64,338 bales in 2023/2024 and further decreased to 54,883 bales in 2024/2025.

Officials noted that these fluctuations undermine the development of a sustainable textile manufacturing sector. While Uganda continues to export raw cotton lint, data from the Uganda Revenue Authority indicates that textile and apparel imports surged from about Shs715 billion in 2020/2021 to Shs779 billion in 2024/2025, with second-hand clothing accounting for over half of these imports.

To reverse the downward trend, the ministry is exploring the feasibility of establishing a 10,000-hectare nucleus farm to lessen reliance on out-growers. Additionally, proposals have been made to implement a phased ban on second-hand clothing, starting with undergarments, to protect domestic industries.

However, committee leaders cautioned that any policy changes must be carefully studied. Committee Chairperson Hon. Boniface Okot urged the ministry to assess the impact of banning second-hand clothes on employment, while Vice Chairperson Hon. Patrick Aeku emphasized the importance of reviving agricultural cooperatives.

State Minister for Trade Gen. Wilson Mbadi reiterated the government’s commitment to coordinated interventions, emphasizing the vast potential of the cotton value chain in driving industrialization and creating jobs. Read more about the parliamentary session on the Parliament of Uganda.