Karachi: The Karachi Cotton Association (KCA) is calling for a collaborative approach to formulating a National Cotton Policy, responding to reports that the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) and the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) are preparing a joint draft for the policy. The KCA expressed appreciation for the efforts but emphasized the need for all stakeholders to be involved in consultations.
The KCA noted that it has long invited stakeholders in the cotton economy to develop a joint strategy aimed at increasing cotton production. This strategy seeks to meet the local textile industry’s growing demand and generate surplus for export, thereby conserving foreign exchange by reducing imports. Despite these efforts, the KCA reported a lack of engagement from other stakeholders for reasons that remain unclear.
The association reiterated its request for the government to implement measures to improve cotton quality, standardize the weight of cotton bales to 170 kilograms, and enhance packing standards. These steps, the KCA believes, will benefit the entire cotton trade and industry.
The KCA also highlighted the crucial role of cotton exporters in stabilizing the market and protecting growers’ interests. It stressed that any national policy should receive government approval only after comprehensive stakeholder consultation, including input from the KCA, which it regards as the leading body of the cotton trade in Pakistan.
The KCA pointed to its previous development of a local sale and purchase contract for raw cotton, which included arbitration options for disputes. While this draft received approval from the PCGA, APTMA has yet to endorse it. The association encouraged APTMA to consider this draft to avoid the lengthy process of creating a new one.
In conclusion, the KCA urged the government to consult all stakeholders, including itself, before finalizing any national cotton policy. It also called for concerted efforts to boost cotton production and improve quality and standards within the industry.