VOICED : Sanctions put squeeze on Mali's lucrative cotton sector

The video discusses the challenges faced by Mali's cotton sector due to trade embargoes and sanctions imposed by ECOWAS and the US. With only 2% of cotton processed locally, the rest is exported, making sanctions a significant hurdle. The government, through the Marlin Company, controls the cotton sector, but border closures have limited exports. Cotton is Mali's second-largest export after gold, contributing significantly to the GDP and employing millions. Despite high state-set prices attracting more producers, the ongoing sanctions pose a threat to the sector's future.

What is one of the main challenges faced by cotton farmers in Mali?

• Lack of water for irrigation

• Trade embargoes and sanctions

• High cost of seeds

• Pests and diseases

Which organization buys all the cotton from farmers in Mali?

• West African Cotton Union

• Marlin Company for Textile Development

• Mali Cotton Association

• Mali Export Corporation

What percentage of Mali's GDP is represented by the cotton sector?

• 15%

• 20%

• 10%

• 25%

How many people are employed in the cotton sector in Mali?

• 4 million

• 3 million

• 2 million

• 5 million

What is the projected cotton production for the current planting cycle?

• 120,000 tons

• 82,000 tons

• 100,000 tons

• 147,000 tons