LAHORE: The first national cotton recovery conference has emphasised the critical importance of increasing cotton production, addressing climate change, and utilising modern research and techniques.

The conference was held at a private hotel in Multan through the collaboration of the Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC) and Cotton Connect.

The conference aimed to restructure the cotton value chain through a sustainable and permanent roadmap, addressing various challenges with integrated strategies. The conference was attended by government representatives, senior officials, agricultural experts, industrial leaders, research institutions, and farmer organizations including key stakeholders.

Experts unanimously highlighted the significant role of cotton in Pakistan’s economy and expressed deep concern over its declining production.

They emphasised the need for immediate policy reforms, including developing high-yield and climate-resilient seed varieties, effective irrigation systems, and improved support facilities for farmers.

The participants agreed on the need for strong partnerships between the government, private sector, and farmers to restore cotton’s vital role in Pakistan’s economy.

The conference proposed a new platform to work on sustainable cotton production with support different bodies, farmers, and government departments.

MNA Rana Qasim Noon and MPA Rana Iqbal Siraj emphasized working on a war footing for cotton recovery, providing financial resources to research institutions, and banning the cultivation of sugarcane and rice in the cotton belt.

Federal Secretary for National Food Security and Research, Waseem Ajmal Chaudhry, stressed the importance of joint efforts and assured that the government is taking necessary measures to address cotton production issues.

International Cotton Advisory Committee adviser Dr Eric highlighted ICAC’s role in addressing global cotton production challenges, climate change, and trade policies.

Published in Dawn, February 5th, 2025