In the Balkan region of Turkmenistan, the cotton harvest-long celebrated as the country’s “white gold”-has successfully concluded.
This milestone is more than a seasonal event; it reflects the resilience of Turkmenistan’s agricultural sector and the long-term impact of strategic investments in farming, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.
Turkmenistan produces a wide range of crops, including bananas, but cotton holds a special place. Often called “white gold,” cotton is not only a source of national pride but also a key driver of the economy. Thanks to its high quality, Turkmen cotton is highly sought after on international markets, generating significant export revenue for the country.
Cotton also underpins Turkmenistan’s domestic textile industry, providing raw materials for eco-friendly fabrics, knitwear, and medical textiles. Beyond economics, cotton cultivation supports employment for hundreds of thousands of rural residents. Even by-products like cottonseed meal contribute to food security as livestock feed, while cottonseed oil enhances traditional dishes.
The successful harvest is the result of systematic efforts and strong state support. Farmers benefit from mineral fertilizers to improve soil fertility, high-quality seeds with enhanced traits, and modern machinery from leading global manufacturers. Economic guarantees, including timely payments for delivered products, reduce risks and encourage further investment in the sector.
Reforms initiated by Halk Maslahaty (People's Council) Chairman Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and continued by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov aim to modernize agriculture, implement advanced agrotechnologies, and increase the competitiveness of Turkmen agricultural products. These strategic measures are paying off.
The achievements of cotton growers in the Balkan region are significant not only locally but nationally. Despite climate challenges-including droughts, temperature fluctuations, and unprecedented dust storms-the sector has shown remarkable resilience. These successes also stimulate investment in processing facilities, increasing the share of high-value-added products.
Cotton cultivation strengthens domestic production and food independence while expanding export opportunities. Turkmen cotton remains in high demand in markets such as China, Türkiye, and the European Union.
Looking ahead, sustaining and expanding these gains will require the adoption of water-saving technologies-particularly drip irrigation and modern sprinklers-development of disease- and drought-resistant varieties, increased local processing from fiber to finished textiles and garments, and strengthening logistics for reliable export deliveries.
In short, the cotton harvest in the Balkan region is far more than an annual agricultural task-it is a key indicator of Turkmenistan’s agro-economic health. It demonstrates that government support, strategic planning, and modern technology can transform traditional crops into a foundation for high-tech production, ensuring regional growth and global competitiveness.
The Balkan cotton harvest is another step in Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a leading player in the regional agricultural sector.
