A delegation from Brazil has assured the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) of full technical support to upsurge local production of cotton.
The visiting delegation, comprising the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association, Brazilian Cotton Shippers Association and Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency visited the APTMA offices in Lahore and engaged in discussions on sustainable cotton initiatives, industry challenges, solutions, and evolving buyer requirements.
Both sides agreed to strengthen bilateral ties in the cotton sector, with the Brazilian delegation pledging to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan. According to a statement issued by APTMA, they discussed the significant potential for collaboration in cotton and textiles, as well as expanding trade and investment relations in other key areas.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s strong potential for growth in the textile sector, the visiting delegates underscored the importance of continued engagement and dialogue to increase trade volume and fully capitalize on the economic partnership between the two countries.
During the meeting, APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad briefed the visitors, stressing on the need to facilitate technology transfer for high-yielding cottonseeds. He also advocated for the entry of international seed companies with transgenic technology into Pakistan.
Arshad hoped the discussions would yield significant benefits for Pakistan’s textile sector, including greater adoption of sustainable cotton farming practices, improved supply chain transparency, and enhanced competitiveness in global markets. APTMA Chairman North Asad Shafi, meanwhile, emphasized the promotion of linkages between Pakistan’s textile industry and Brazilian cotton producers.
During the meeting, APTMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Brazilian Cotton Producers Association aimed at establishing cotton warehousing facilities in Pakistan to serve regional markets, and strengthen Brazil’s cotton links with Pakistan’s textile industry.
Both sides also discussed collaboration on cotton traceability systems, the introduction of improved, genetically modified, and certified seeds, as well as synergies with Pakistan’s cotton research institutes. They emphasized the capacity building of agricultural research institutions in Pakistan, training on contamination-free cotton production, and the establishment of joint ventures with Pakistani partners.
APTMA also informed the visiting delegation that it has established the APTMA Cotton Foundation to address challenges in cotton production, from seed certification to traceability and sustainability. The foundation hopes to achieve its objectives in a short time with the technical support of the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association.