The American Cotton Shippers Association (ACSA), the Brazilian Cotton Shippers Association (ANEA), and the Australian Cotton Shippers Association have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collectively address matters of efficiency in the global supply chain, enhance security within the cotton trade, and recognize cotton’s comparative sustainability to manmade fiber.
The memorandum, which was signed and formalized at the ACSA Annual Convention in Scottsdale, AZ on June 14, aims to establish dialogue to identify issues of shared interest, strengthen mutual understanding, and provide opportunities for the exchange of ideas and information.
“While it may seem curious that we are collaborating with our largest competitors, we have a collective incentive to address matters that impact cotton’s value around the world,” says ACSA President and CEO Buddy Allen. “The issues that we are focused on can immediately reduce the cost of raw cotton landed at destination, creating enhanced competitiveness to alternative fibers and simultaneously illuminate cotton’s value.”
ACSA Vice President Shea Ishee adds, “ACSA is committed to take bold action to increase the value proposition for cotton production in the United States. This requires a global perspective to compete.” The agreement recognizes the positive contributions of the production and consumption of cotton to global economic development and supply chains. The goal is to ensure the long-term economic and social vitality of their respective industries in the countries they represent through a collaborative approach to global industry issues.
Brazilian Cotton Shippers Association (ANEA) President Miguel Faus states, “We are excited to develop areas and methods of cooperation with the aim of building stronger awareness among consumers and policymakers about the positive contributions of the production and consumption of cotton in global markets.”
“The merchant communities in the U.S., Brazil and Australia – and indeed the wider cotton communities they represent – welcome the opportunity to work as one,” says Australian Cotton Shippers Association Chairman Tony Geitz. “We aim to lead discussions around policy making and global supply chains to ensure cotton remains in high demand.”
