Pakistan is currently the 5th largest producer of cotton worldwide, according to Statistica (2022-2023 report).
A decade ago, it ranked 4th, but its production declined over the years.
Cotton, a natural fiber, holds immense importance in agriculture, standing as the second most vital crop after food grains.
Cotton Protection to Increase in Pakistan
A significant increase in cotton production has been reported by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA).
By August 15, 2023, ginning factories across Pakistan received a total of 2.115 million bales of cotton, representing 43% of the previous season’s total production.
This substantial growth is projected to push the total cotton production for the 2023-24 season to 12 million bales.
Punjab received 637,000 bales of cotton, while Sindh contributed 1.479 million bales to the factories. Textile mills have purchased 1.86 million bales, leaving 189,000 bales available for sale at the ginning units.
Highlighting this report is Sindh’s remarkable cotton production, accounting for 79% of the previous year’s total harvest.
8th Largest Exporter of Textiles in Asia
Pakistan stands as the 8th largest exporter of textile products in Asia. The textile sector plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy, contributing over 60% to its exports and significantly impacting the external trade balance.
Key exports from this sector include household items such as sheets and towels, knitwear, fabrics, and woven apparel. Despite global economic challenges and reduced consumer demand, the textile sector continues to outperform other industries.
Other Major Cotton Producing Countries
The top five cotton-producing countries collectively contribute to 74% of the world’s total cotton production, with a quantity mentioned in thousand tons.
China leads the pack with 5835 tons, followed by India with 5334 tons, the United States with 381 tons, Brazil with 2505 tons, and Pakistan with 1302 tons.
Australia and Turkey also make significant contributions, producing 1252 and 827 tons, respectively. The remaining nations together produce 4282 tons.
Cotton, grown around the seeds of cotton plants, serves as a fundamental raw material in the textile industry.
The process begins with obtaining cotton fibers, which are then spun into yarn and further woven or knitted into fabric.
The popularity of cotton in the clothing industry is long-standing, owing to its desirable characteristics. It absorbs moisture, drapes well, and is renowned for its durability.
Consumers favor cotton for its light and comfortable qualities, leading to a wide range of products, from bath towels and bed linens to basic clothing items like t-shirts and socks.
Among the top cotton producers are China, India, and the United States. In the United States, cotton production traditionally thrived in the Southern states, known as the ‘Cotton Belt’ from the 18th to the 20th century.
However, due to factors such as soil depletion and economic shifts, cotton production has waned, and these regions now predominantly cultivate crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat.
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