Pakistan’s cotton sector, once the backbone of the agricultural economy, now stands at a critical juncture. Declining productivity, deteriorating quality and deep-rooted systemic challenges are threatening its future. Without a cohesive and long-term national cotton policy, revival may become increasingly difficult.

Recent figures for the 2025–26 season reflect a sharp decline in performance. A report released by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) on 15 July 2025 has raised serious concerns. It warns that continued inaction will not only weaken Pakistan’s largest export industry, the textile sector, but also significantly increase the national import bill.

Several interlinked factors have contributed to this ongoing crisis. In Sindh, water shortages, erratic weather patterns and widespread whitefly infestations have severely affected crop health. Compounding these challenges are issues such as price uncertainty,........

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