ISLAMABAD: In a crucial move to reverse the declining trend in cotton production, an inter-ministerial meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on Thursday approved the implementation plan for revival of the cotton sector, including collection of cotton cess through the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), well-informed sources told Business Recorder.
Pakistan’s cotton production has nosedived to an estimated 6.85 million bales in the 2025-26 season from 2.0 million hectares — a sharp 34 percent shortfall against the target of 10.18 million bales.
During the meeting, the Cotton Commissioner, Ministry of National Food Security & Research, presented a comprehensive revival roadmap prepared in consultation with the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (Aptma) and incorporating its recommendations.
The meeting adopted an inclusive and participatory approach, emphasising industry ownership of the initiative. Concluding the session, the Chair reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment to ensuring that leadership of cotton revival rests with an industry-led council under Aptma’s stewardship.
Sources said the approved measures aim to address structural challenges and restore cotton production to sustainable levels in the coming years.