[Video/chinadaily.com.cn]

China's cotton industry is seeing growing innovation alongside a complete industrial chain and strong resilience, according to Pan Zhiyan, chief representative for China of the International Cotton Association (ICA), who spoke at the seventh Qingdao Multinationals Summit on June 16.

Pan also highlighted Shandong's growing importance in the global cotton industry. She noted that about 85 percent of China's imported cotton enters the country through Qingdao Port, while a large number of leading cotton enterprises are concentrated in the province.

Speaking about the industry's future development, Pan said China plays a vital role in maintaining the stability of the global cotton sector. With its comprehensive supply chain and vast market, the country continues to be a key destination for international cotton businesses seeking cooperation and investment opportunities.

Looking ahead, she expects China's cotton industry to accelerate its transformation from a manufacturing base into an innovation hub, shifting away from scale-driven growth to gain greater influence in shaping market rules and pricing mechanisms.