(Ecofin Agency) - Benin’s cotton production should regress during the 2015/2016 season. According to the minister of agriculture, this season will produce only 324,000 tons (-18%) as a result of poor weather conditions which led to the reducing of acreage (306,000 ha this season against 400,000 ha the previous year).

According to Ecobank, the drop in output arises as Benin’s cotton industry faces various challenges. Truly, the industry is currently facing quality as well as delayed shipment issues. Moreover, the dispute between ginners and government is yet to be solved.

Analysts from Ecobank say that all efforts from authorities (rapid payment of cotton transporters, accelerated ship loading via single-desk system, etc.) are likely to be hampered by the lack of storage space at the port of Cotonou.

Aaron Akinocho