Kazakhstan, Xinjiang Lihua review progress on cotton-textile cluster project
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Tuesday met with Chairman of the Board of Directors of Xinjiang Lihua Zhang Qihai to discuss the implementation of a project for establishing a vertically integrated, full-cycle cotton-textile cluster, Qazinform News Agency reports via Akorda.
President Tokayev was briefed that the project designed to boost local production and lower import reliance. The head of Xinjiang Lihua confirmed that several facilities are already operational, including two cotton processing plants, with future plans to launch facilities for non-woven materials, clothing, and home textiles
By implementing innovative digital technologies and drip irrigation, this project will expand cotton cultivation to 52,000 hectares. The initial phase brings in roughly 360 million US dollars in foreign direct investment and is expected to generate over 4,000 jobs.
The Kazakh president highlighted the cluster's pivotal role in boosting the southern region's agricultural and light industries. He further underlined that cultivating local expertise is a vital component of the company's operations.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for broad adoption of water-saving technologies and supported AI/smart solutions to address the high resource consumption of cotton farming.
Following the meeting, President Tokayev awarded Zhang Qihai with the Order of Dostyq (Friendship), 2nd class, in recognition of his contribution to promoting the agro-industrial complex in Kazakhstan.
Previously, Qazinform reported Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his sincere gratitude to Aibek Dadebay, praising his work as the Head of the Presidential Administration.
