Kathmandu— The China Cotton Association (CCA) has rejected the United States' decision to add 43 Chinese companies, including cotton textile firms, to the so-called 'Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List'. The CCA stated that these claims are without factual or legal foundation and accused the U.S. of politicizing human rights issues.

Cotton Industry Automation

In Xinjiang, a major cotton-producing region in China, over 90 percent of cotton harvesting is now mechanized, with highly automated operations covering the entire industrial chain from planting and harvesting to processing and textile production. The CCA emphasized that labor rights are strictly protected by Chinese laws, ensuring voluntary employment choices for workers.

Impact on Global Supply Chains

The sanctions imposed by the U.S. will undermine the stability of global cotton industrial and supply chains, according to the CCA. The association warned that these actions infringe upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and are aimed at containing China's development in the cotton and textile industries.

Confidence in Overcoming Challenges

Despite external pressures, China's cotton industry remains confident in its ability to overcome challenges. The CCA highlighted that China possesses the world’s most complete cotton and textile industrial chains, a vast domestic consumer market, and an increasingly diversified international market layout.

The China Cotton Association stated it will continue to support and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese cotton and textile enterprises.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.