Better Cotton has taken a significant step toward promoting sustainable cotton practices by signing a strategic roadmap with Uzbekistan's Ministry of Agriculture and the Textile and Garment Industry Association (Uztekstilprom). This collaboration aims to enhance the production of sustainable cotton in Uzbekistan, one of the world's largest cotton producers.

The agreement is set to strengthen the Better Cotton Programme in Uzbekistan by building on the country’s unique cotton cluster model—vertically integrated enterprises that manage every stage of cotton production, from growing to processing. This roadmap aligns with the conference's theme, “Building Strategic Partnerships to Ensure Sustainable Cotton Production”, and seeks to create a more sustainable, profitable cotton sector.

Better Cotton will also collaborate with partners to improve data assessment and strengthen assurance activities, aiming to reduce audit fatigue while ensuring quality. The initiative includes efforts to engage supply chain actors, showcasing the advantages of processing Physical Better Cotton—cotton that has been traced throughout the supply chain, meeting sustainability criteria.