Islamabad, March 3, 2025: Pakistan’s cotton arrivals have dropped 34% to 5.5 million bales as of February 28, 2025, compared to 8.4 million bales during the same period last year, according to the latest data from the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA).
The decline raises concerns for the country’s textile industry, which heavily relies on domestic cotton supply, as well as for farmers facing financial strain. Despite being one of the world’s top ten cotton producers, Pakistan has struggled to meet production targets due to unfavorable weather, pest infestations, and structural inefficiencies in the sector.
Cotton arrivals from stood at 2.8 million bales, marking a 32% year-on-year decline.
Punjab recorded 2.7 million bales, reflecting an even sharper 36% drop compared to last year.
The continued slump in cotton production poses significant risks to Pakistan’s economy, as cotton and textile exports are a key source of foreign exchange and employment. Experts warn that without policy interventions to boost yields, address climate-related challenges, and improve pest management, the textile industry may face an increased reliance on costly cotton imports, exacerbating the country’s trade deficit.
Policymakers and industry stakeholders are urging urgent reforms to modernize farming practices, improve seed quality, and enhance irrigation systems to stabilize production and support the struggling sector.
