ISLAMABAD: Cotton production in Pakistan has decreased by 33%, raising significant concerns among stakeholders. There is an urgent need for targeted actions to improve production levels.

According to the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA), 5,190,725 bales were produced by November 30, 2024, a sharp decline from 7,753,473 bales in 2023.Jam Kamal Sets Sights on Expanding Rice Exports

Punjab saw a 34.19% drop, producing 2,459,684 bales in 2024 compared to 3,736,749 bales last year. Similarly, Sindh recorded a 32.01% decrease, with 2,731,041 bales this year against 4,016,724 bales in 2023. Balochistan’s contribution was only 155,800 bales.

Cotton expert Sajid Mahmood attributes the decline to weak policies and practical challenges, stressing the need for a comprehensive revival program for cotton cultivation. “Conferences and meetings alone cannot resolve the crisis,” Mahmood emphasized.

He recommended implementing a minimum support price of Rs. 10,000 per maund to incentivize farmers. Mahmood also highlighted the need for modern, climate-resilient seeds to tackle pests such as whiteflies and pink bollworms. “Farmers need financial stability to prioritize cotton over other crops,” he stated.

Research institutions like the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC) urgently need funding, he added. Mahmood also suggested banning duty-free imported cotton to encourage local cultivation. “Strengthening research and development is the only way forward,” he said.

Pakistan’s growing reliance on imported cotton could cost the country over $2 billion this year. Mahmood called for effective policies to elevate cotton’s status and advocated for direct market access for farmers, eliminating exploitative middlemen.