Climate change threatens Pakistan’s cotton sector

August 12, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan’s cotton sector faces mounting risks from climate change, pest attacks, declining farmland, and unstable prices, raising concerns over the crop’s future sustainability.

During a meeting of the Cotton Committee, chaired by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, the Government reviewed last year’s crop performance, identified pressing challenges, and outlined strategies to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

The discussion highlighted that early sowing had a positive impact on yields, while timely availability of quality seed, adequate water supply, and effective pest control were crucial for better results.

The meeting also stressed the need for farmer training, adoption of climate-smart agriculture, and promotion of profitable crop rotations.

Market stabilization measures were proposed to protect farmer incomes and encourage sustained cultivation.

Reaffirming cotton’s role as a backbone of the rural economy and textile industry, the Minister vowed the government’s full support, urging close coordination among stakeholders to meet national production targets and secure the livelihoods of millions dependent on the crop.

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