Cotton is a major cash crop in Sudan but production declined in recent years because of bollworm infestation. The introduction of Bt cotton in Sudan was thus a welcome change and is expected to boost cotton productivity, restore cotton as a main cash crop, and serve as a major contributor to the country’s economy.
How much does Bt cotton cost in Sudan?
In 2012, Bt cotton saved 37% of the direct cost of cotton production. Producing non-Bt cotton was much more costly at US$886 per hectare, compared with US$586 for Bt cotton. Cotton is a major cash crop in Sudan but production declined in recent years because of bollworm infestation.
Why is Bt cotton important in Sudan?
The introduction of Bt cotton in Sudan was thus a welcome change and is expected to boost cotton productivity, restore cotton as a main cash crop, and serve as a major contributor to the country’s economy. Earnest efforts are now being made by the Sudanese government to revive both cotton production and the domestic textile industry.
How much cotton is grown in Sudan?
In 2012, at the beginning of commercialization, Sudan cultivated only 19,300 hectares with Bt cotton but that was increased to 61,530 hectares in 2013 (89% of the cultivated area for cotton) and this year it reached almost 100%, with a cultivation area of some 78,500 hectares.