Cotton Arrivals in Pakistan Rise 9% Despite Flood Concerns
September 03, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Cotton arrivals in Pakistan have increased by 9% as of August 31, 2025, compared to the same period last year, according to data released by the Pakistan Cotton Ginners’ Association (PCGA). Total arrivals reached 1.336 million bales, up from 1.226 million bales in 2024, reflecting an increase of 0.11 million bales.
While this rise brings a welcome boost to the country’s struggling agricultural sector, experts have raised concerns over the impact of recent floods, which have affected vast areas of fertile land, especially in Punjab. The floods have caused damage to key crops such as rice, sugarcane, maize, vegetables, and cotton, threatening overall agricultural output.
The increase in cotton arrivals is particularly important for Pakistan’s textile industry, which accounts for more than half of the country’s exports. With the sector already facing challenges like a 19% US tariff, any disruption in cotton supply could further impact export revenues and the national economy.
Regional Breakdown:
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Punjab: Cotton arrivals reached 0.466 million bales, up 3% from 0.453 million bales last year.
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Sindh: Cotton arrivals showed a stronger increase of 13%, rising to 0.870 million bales from 0.773 million bales.
Experts warn that shortages in cotton and other crops could push up costs for households and affect export competitiveness. Ghasharib Shoukat, co-founder of Zarai Mandi, said, “The floods have created a precarious situation for Pakistan’s agriculture and textile sectors, which are already under pressure.”
Despite these challenges, the latest figures provide a glimmer of hope for farmers and the textile industry as Pakistan navigates the ongoing effects of extreme weather events.
