Take action now

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'A solution to the cotton problem cannot wait'

Statement by 79 developing countries in response to continued subsidies for US cotton farmers.

Thanks to everyone who has taken action as part of the Great Cotton Stitch-Up campaign over the past 18 months. You can read the latest update on the campaign here. Despite a record-breaking start to the campaign, a lot remains to be done to put an end to unfair cotton subsidies keeping African cotton farmers in poverty. Whilst the political space to influence our campaign targets isn't there for the moment, we can still support marginalised cotton farmers, before launching the next phase of the campaign. In summer 2012 we'll be turning our attention to school uniforms, to get as many pupils kitted out in Fairtrade cotton for the new school term in September as possible. Watch this space for further details...

In the meantime, Fairtrade certified cotton remains a lifeline for many Indian and African farmers, bringing a stable income with enough for today, and a little bit extra to invest in tomorrow. Look, and ask, for Fairtrade certified cotton when you're shopping - check out this list of Fairtrade certified cotton products.

Downloads and useful links

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Learn to speak European - a guide to lobbying your MEPs for change Stitch-Up Q&A - tricky questions on the cotton campaign Template press release  – if you are lobbying your MEPs locally Schools resources on cotton Fashion student cotton project Producer Stories Films, questions and answers on cotton