PAKISTAN’S ginning sector is passing through a critical phase due to a sharp decline in cotton production, outdated technology, rising production costs and an unstable market. The recent hike in cotton prices has further increased the burden on the textile industry, while ginning factories are struggling to survive. As a result, many factories have reduced their workforce, cut down staff salaries, leaving thousands of families under financial stress.

At the same time, cotton farmers are already facing immense difficulties. The costs of seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, electricity and other agricultural inputs have risen significantly, making cotton cultivation less profitable. This discourages our farmers from growing cotton, and further weakens the entire supply chain.

Ultimately, the impact of all these challenges would not remain confined to farmers or industrialists. The common people will bear the greatest burden through higher prices of textile products, reduced employment opportunities, and slower economic growth.

The federal government must take this key issue seriously and introduce timely measures to revive cotton production, support farmers and modernise the ginning industry. Immediate policy interventions are essential to prevent further deterioration and to ensure sustainable growth of the country’s critical textile sector.

Ahsan Ul Haq Shaikh
Chunian

Published in Dawn, September 10th, 2026