Pakistan’s cotton production is projected to range from 6 to 7 million bales this year, presenting a shortfall of 3 to 4 million bales that will need to be imported. Industry experts emphasize the detrimental effects of climate change and ongoing research into seed quality. Additionally, the economic situation of farmers is adversely impacting cotton production. These insights were shared with a high-level team from Karachi Port during their visit to the Karachi Cotton Association (KCA) at the historic Cotton Exchange today.
The KCA, Pakistan’s premier cotton trade organization, warmly welcomed Rear Admiral Ateeq Ur Rehman Abid Si(M), Chairman of Karachi Port Trust (KPT), along with his team. This visit underscored the significance of collaboration between the port authority and the country’s cotton economy, focusing on cooperative efforts to promote the cotton industry and KPT’s role in fostering public-private partnership projects.
The KPT delegation included Rear Admiral Kashif Munir Si(M) General Manager (E); Brig. Muhammad Younis, General Manager (Administration); Mashoud Ahmed Jan, General Manager (Finance); Muhammad Qasim Khokhar, Secretary; Engr. Ismail Soomro, General Manager (Commercial Works), and others.
Khawaja Muhammad Zubair, Chairman of the Karachi Cotton Association, welcomed the team and presented a documentary showcasing the KCA’s role in Pakistan’s cotton trade. He also discussed the association’s history and its objectives since its establishment in 1993. The KCA is the only trade body that announces daily spot rates for cotton and offers arbitration services to resolve legal disputes among stakeholders.
He emphasized that cotton plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s economy, contributing over 50% of revenue both directly and indirectly. The KCA’s laboratory has been recognized as one of the best in the field, with 178 members globally.
The meeting extensively addressed the challenges facing cotton production and exchanged suggestions for improving yields. Participants highlighted issues that hinder the transition of farmers to cultivating sugarcane and maize, calling for a review to establish a new ecosystem to support the growth of cotton in Pakistan.
They emphasized the need for high-quality seeds and the importance of importing them to ensure future improvements in cotton production.
KPT’s Chairman proudly announced that the port has achieved substantial profits driven by a significant increase in exports, handling approximately 40% more than before, along with an uptick in containers and cargo. He expressed optimism that this growth would continue at an average rate of 10%. To further enhance exports, the port recently announced a reduction in tariffs.
Brig. Muhammad Younis, General Manager (Administration), highlighted the port authority’s achievements, which include HR development initiatives, the retraining of 717 positions, savings on unnecessary overtime and medical expenses, and the recovery of 140 acres of land.
