Pakistan, July 7 -- Pakistan's cotton production has plummeted from a peak of 15 million bales to just 5.5 million, sending shockwaves through the textile sector and pressuring the country's foreign reserves. As local supply shrinks, the industry is increasingly relying on imported cotton, raising serious economic concerns.

Industry leaders are urging federal and provincial governments to introduce crop zoning laws, reduce input costs for farmers, and slash the 86% sales tax on cotton ginning. They are also pushing for a renewed focus on hybrid cotton, though doubts remain about its long-term viability in Pakistan's climate.

Following the government's approval for hybrid seed imports, around 150 acres of hybrid cotton have been planted ...