APTMA, Brazilian delegation discuss cotton sector collaboration

February 27, 2025 (MLN): In a significant development for the textile and cotton industries, the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association (ABRAPA) has assured Pakistan of full technical support to enhance local cotton production.

A high-level Brazilian delegation, including representatives from the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association, Brazilian Cotton Shippers Association, and Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, visited the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) office in Lahore to discuss collaboration and investment opportunities in the cotton sector.

During their meeting, both sides held productive discussions on sustainable cotton initiatives, industry challenges, and evolving buyer requirements.

Pakistan and Brazil agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation, exploring investment opportunities and strengthening ties within the cotton sector, as per the press release issued today.

The Brazilian delegation acknowledged Pakistan’s strong growth potential in the textile industry and emphasized the importance of continued dialogue to maximize trade opportunities between the two nations.

APTMA Chairman Mr. Kamran Arshad delivered a detailed presentation, highlighting the need to boost bilateral trade relations to facilitate the transfer of high-yield cotton seed technology.

He underscored the significance of allowing international seed companies with transgenic technology access to Pakistan's market, which would help improve local cotton yields and quality.

Mr. Asad Shafi, Chairman North, stressed the importance of strengthening linkages between Pakistan’s textile industry and Brazilian cotton producers.

Both parties discussed strategic initiatives, including signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between APTMA and ABRAPA, establishing cotton warehousing facilities in Pakistan to cater to regional markets, and enhancing trade relations between Brazilian cotton suppliers and Pakistan’s textile sector.

Additionally, collaboration on cotton traceability systems, the introduction of improved genetically modified and certified seeds, and synergies between Brazilian expertise and Pakistan's cotton research institutes were discussed.

The two sides also emphasized capacity-building efforts for Pakistani agricultural research institutions, training on contamination-free cotton production, and forming joint ventures with Pakistani partners.

The Brazilian delegation comprised Mr. Alexandre Schnkel, President of ABRAPA; Mr. Celestino Zanella, Vice-President of ABRAPA; Mr. Fernando Rezende Silva Neves Rati, Project Coordinator of ABRAPA; Mr. Marcelo Duarte Monteiro, Director of ABRAPA; and Mr. Miguel Faus, President of ANEA.

The delegation was warmly received by APTMA Chairman Mr. Kamran Arshad, along with Mr. Asad Shafi, Chairman North; Mr. Faisal Javed of Din Industries; Mr. Muhammad Ali of Resham Textile; Mr. Sufyan Akhtar of Siara Textile; and Mr. Raza Baqir, Secretary General of APTMA, alongside other senior members.

APTMA leadership informed the Brazilian delegation that APTMA has already set up the APTMA Cotton Foundation to address key challenges in cotton production, including seed certification, traceability, and sustainability.

With technical support from the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association, the Foundation aims to achieve significant milestones in a short period, contributing to Pakistan’s long-term cotton industry growth.

This partnership marks a crucial step in strengthening the cotton and textile trade between Pakistan and Brazil.

By leveraging Brazilian expertise, Pakistan’s cotton sector is poised for a transformation that will enhance productivity, quality, and global competitiveness.

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