Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain chaired a high-level meeting on the Cotton Revival Strategy, directing concerned institutions to accelerate reforms in seed development, regulatory approvals, research and mechanization to restore cotton production and improve farmers’ profitability.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority (NSDRA), Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC), Department of Plant Protection (DPP), provincial agriculture departments, private seed companies, All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), ginners, seed associations, Cotton Connect and other stakeholders.
The meeting reviewed the persistent decline in cotton cultivation and production, particularly in Punjab, where falling yields, rising production costs and declining profitability have encouraged farmers to shift towards sugarcane, maize and other competing crops. Cotton Leaf Curl Virus, pest infestations, climate variability, poor-quality seed and inadequate mechanization were identified as major constraints.
The meeting considered a three-pronged Cotton Revival Strategy focusing on strengthening locally developed cotton seed, facilitating the import of improved cotton seed and introducing a fast-track approval mechanism for imported varieties.
Addressing the participants, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized that reviving cotton was essential for strengthening Pakistan's agricultural economy, supporting the textile industry and reducing dependence on imported raw materials. He stressed that cotton cultivation must become economically attractive for farmers through improved productivity, quality seed and reduced production costs.
To strengthen domestic cotton research, the meeting decided to constitute a three-member committee comprising PARC, NSDRA and PCCC, led by PARC , to facilitate the acquisition of exotic cotton germplasm. The committee will identify technical requirements, funding needs and acquisition arrangements. Mechanisms will also be developed to provide private seed companies access to suitable germplasm available with public research institutions.
The meeting emphasized strengthening public-sector cotton research through performance-based accountability, clearly defined key performance indicators (KPIs) and appropriate incentives for cotton breeders to develop commercially viable, high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties.
Regarding imported cotton seed, the Minister directed the Department of Plant Protection to expedite pending Pest Risk Analyses (PRAs) and Controlled Import Permits (CIPs) to facilitate access to improved international seed technologies while ensuring compliance with phytosanitary requirements.
The meeting reviewed engagement with China, Türkiye, Syria, Kenya, the United States, Mexico, Kyrgyzstan and Australia. DPP informed participants that China had submitted its technical dossier and additional information had been requested, while progress with several other countries remained dependent on their responses.
A major focus of the meeting was the proposed 12–18-month fast-track approval mechanism for imported cotton seed, compared with the approximately seven years required under existing procedures. The proposal, supported by cotton-sector stakeholders, will be examined within the existing legal and regulatory framework without compromising mandatory scientific testing, biosecurity or biosafety standards.
The meeting also discussed regulatory challenges concerning genetically modified and Bt cotton varieties. It was emphasized that necessary biosafety clearances must be obtained from the relevant authorities under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination. Matters requiring higher-level policy intervention may be referred to the Prime Minister.
On crop zoning, the Minister directed NSDRA and relevant institutions to expedite the processing of promising cotton varieties identified through trials and facilitate the availability of basic seed. The meeting emphasized that cotton varieties should be evaluated and approved according to their performance in specific agro-climatic regions rather than relying exclusively on uniform national criteria.
Recognizing mechanization as critical to reducing production costs and overcoming labour shortages, participants discussed the introduction of single-pick cotton varieties and mechanical cotton-picking technology. Relevant institutions were asked to examine dedicated testing parameters for varieties suitable for mechanical harvesting. The taxation of agricultural machinery was also identified as an issue requiring review.
The meeting further highlighted emerging opportunities in sustainable and traceable cotton production, including organic cotton and potential carbon-credit mechanisms, to enhance Pakistan's competitiveness in international markets.
Concluding the meeting, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain directed all concerned institutions to prioritize implementation of the agreed measures and submit actionable proposals and recommendations to the Ministry.
