Boosting Pakistan's Cotton Sector: A Call for Collective Action
In a ceremony celebrating Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi, the importance of collective efforts across various sectors to achieve ambitious cotton production goals was highlighted. CM Naqvi praised the contributions of the agriculture department, Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), and the Pakistan Army in combating challenges such as a whitefly infestation and floods that had affected cotton production in Punjab.
Karobar
In a special ceremony celebrating Caretaker Chief Minister (CM) Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, a clarion call for collective efforts to achieve ambitious cotton production targets echoed through the air. The event was organized by the Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) to mark World Cotton Day and featured the presence of Caretaker Federal Minister for Commerce and Industry, Dr. Gohar Ejaz.
CM Naqvi took the podium during a press conference, shedding light on Pakistan's cotton crop situation, with a particular emphasis on the outstanding cotton production in Punjab. He applauded the collaborative efforts of the agriculture department, APTMA, and the Pakistan Army, all of which played pivotal roles in tackling a whitefly infestation that had plagued cotton crops.
Naqvi disclosed that the whitefly infestation had inflicted significant damage, leading to losses of approximately 1.5 million cotton bales. Additionally, floods in the Satluj region had submerged over 70,000 acres of cotton fields. However, he radiated optimism about the prospects of exporting $2 billion worth of rice this year and underscored the need for maximizing wheat yields per acre.
The CM emphasized the imperative of supplying farmers with top-quality seeds and fertilizers while implementing a robust strategy to reach production targets. He called for the reinvigoration of research institutes to effectively address the agricultural challenges that lay ahead.
Addressing inquiries, Naqvi mentioned a significant reduction in sugar prices from Rs180 to Rs140-150 and foresaw further improvement once smuggling was curtailed. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to accelerate development projects and combat smog.
Meanwhile, Kashif Anwar, President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), underscored the pivotal role of Pakistan's cotton sector in economic development and poverty alleviation. He stressed the importance of crafting sustainable and collaborative policies in consultation with all stakeholders.
Anwar commended the recent recovery in Pakistan's cotton sector, citing a remarkable 71% increase in cotton production. However, he expressed concerns about the sharp decline from 8.3 million bales in the 2021-22 season to 4.9 million bales in the 2022-23 season. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the sector was showing promising signs of improvement.
The ceremony honoring CM Naqvi's dedication to the cotton sector highlighted both the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. With a united front and a renewed commitment to innovative strategies, Pakistan's cotton industry can undoubtedly achieve its ambitious targets and continue to contribute significantly to the nation's economic growth.
