Pakistan’s cotton production nearly halves in current season

Pakistan’s cotton production in the current season has nearly halved, with experts and farmers attributing the decline to climate change and the government’s failure to ensure good rates.

Data shared by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association showed that 442,000 cotton bales were produced by July 15. Compared to 858,000 bales produced in the same period last year, this is a decrease of 48%.

Punjab produced 199,000 cotton bales, down 42% from last year. Meanwhile, Sindh produced 659,000 bales, down 50% compared to the same period last year.

Experts have said that the decline is partly due to climate change — lower temperatures in February and March and excessive heat during May and June affected cotton production.

Farmers also attributed the lower production to the government’s failure to follow through on its promise to ensure that cotton growers get a rate of at least Rs8,500 per 40kg for their produce.