Chad’s cotton sector receives $22.5 million boost from France

Chad, Africa’s second-largest cotton producer after Cameroon, is set to revitalize its struggling cotton industry with a €19.35 million (USD 22.5 million) financial package from France. The initiative aims to stabilize and expand the sector, which has faced inconsistent output in recent years.

France funds five-year agricultural development program

The Chadian Ministry of Production and Agricultural Industrialization launched the Développement agricole et territorial du bassin cotonnier du Tchad (DEBACO) on May 13, a five-year project funded entirely by the French Development Agency (AFD). This program represents a strategic shift in France’s support for Chad’s cotton value chain, emphasizing integrated rural development.

While DEBACO prioritizes cotton production, it also incorporates assistance for key food security crops including sorghum, corn, cowpeas, and peanuts. The comprehensive approach addresses land use planning, transhumance corridor security, conflict prevention, and local stakeholder dialogue mechanisms.

Targeted interventions in high-production regions

The initiative will focus on Mayo-Kebbi Ouest and Moyen-Chari provinces, which together account for approximately 25% of Chad’s annual cotton output. These areas have been identified as critical to the sector’s recovery and growth.

Volatile cotton production trends

Chad’s cotton sector has experienced significant fluctuations in recent years. After a 9% increase in 2023-2024 production (reaching 111,262 tons), the following season saw a dramatic 48% decline to 57,774 tons. Industry analysts project a 29.8% recovery for 2025-2026, with estimated output of 75,000 tons.

The DEBACO program’s implementation will be closely watched as stakeholders seek sustainable solutions to stabilize Chad’s cotton industry and restore its position as a key regional producer.