The province of Chaco is on the verge of a technological leap forward in cotton production with the development of an extra-long staple variety, comparable in quality to prestigious Peruvian cotton. This breakthrough, the result of four years of collaborative work between producers, private companies, and the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), promises to revolutionize the national textile industry and open up new opportunities in international markets.

Héctor Linke, president of the Argentine Association of Cotton Producers, explained in an interview with Radio Nordeste: "It's the creation of a high-quality fiber. So that people can understand, what we're talking about with extra-long staple cotton is a high-quality fiber, very similar to the famous Peruvian cotton, which makes it possible to produce extremely high-quality clothing."

The project, which has already yielded its first fruits, seeks to position Chaco cotton among the best in the world. "We want to seek new horizons and markets. Why not think about being able to have very good cotton or compete with Pima or Peruvian cotton at these levels?" Linke stated.

One of the advantages of this new variety is its adaptability to existing production processes. According to Linke, "it's practically the same as the other; it's harvested the same way and stripped the same way." He also emphasized that "it's going to be a little more economical with the same quality" compared to Peruvian cotton, which could translate into better returns for producers.

The development of this extra-long-staple cotton not only represents an advance in quality but also in sustainability. Linke mentioned that they are working on "certifications and carbon footprint measurements, which we will eventually incorporate into Chaco cotton and characterize it as one of the best cottons in the world."

The first harvest has already been carried out, and the first fabrics are in the production process. "It's already been harvested, the first two bales have been made, where we could organize the first fabrics, and now the garments will be made," Linke reported, adding that "it will be a garment in a very short time."

This achievement is the result of a joint effort between the private and public sectors. Linke particularly highlighted the work of INTA: "INTA technicians have done a wonderful job. What they have achieved is truly extraordinary."

The project not only represents a technological advance, but also a stimulus for the entire agricultural sector. "Producers never give up; they try to fight the current and improve themselves," said Linke, highlighting the farmers' resilience in the face of climatic and economic challenges.

Looking ahead, the goal is to expand production. "Now we have to achieve development in large quantities. We have to convince producers; we have to start working on this," Linke noted.

This development promises not only to improve the quality of Chaco cotton, but also to strengthen the national textile industry and open up new export opportunities, consolidating Chaco as a world leader in the production of high-quality cotton.