The International Cotton Advisory Committee’s (ICAC) drive to promote instrument-based cotton testing is gaining momentum as 2025 begins. The Committee for Commercial Standardization of Instrument Testing of Cotton (CSITC) reported a milestone achievement during its fourth and final 2024 Round Trials, with 72 facilities submitting a record-breaking 173 instruments for evaluation. This marks the highest participation in CSITC’s 19-year history.
The trials, which aim to enhance global cotton testing standards, recorded a median Overall Evaluation Result (OER) of 0.36 consistent with the stable range of 0.30 to 0.40 observed since 2017. Participating facilities received detailed diagnostic reports instead of pass/fail results, enabling targeted improvements in their testing processes.
To sustain its progress, CSITC has implemented several initiatives, including introducing a new logo, establishing an executive committee for dynamic decision-making, and updating member roles. Efforts to increase outreach to manufacturers, spinning mills, and new members from nations like Brazil, India, Pakistan, and Turkiye have also been intensified. These steps ensure continued advancement in cotton testing precision globally.