Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce, Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, met with a delegation from the international organization Cotton Connect and global brand Primark. The delegation was led by Mr. Neil La Croix Global Strategy Manager of Cotton Connect, UK. Other members included Mr. Rauf Ahmed Khan, Senior Programme Manager Cotton Connect Pakistan; Mr. Muhammad Wajid Khan, Country Manager Primark Cotton Project Pakistan; Mr. Muhammad Abu Bakar, Country Director Cotton Connect Pakistan; and other officials.The meeting discussed possibilities of collaboration between the Punjab Government and Cotton Connect to increase cotton production and strengthen the supply chain of sustainable cotton.
Speaking on the occasion, Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said that 30% of Pakistan’s exports come from the textile sector, while this sector is also a major source of employment. To promote this important sector of the economy, the government is establishing a Garment City at Quaid-e-Azam Business Park, Sheikhupura, where foreign textile industries and technology will be transferred. He said cotton is a cash crop that benefits farmers; however, in recent years, cotton production has declined. The Punjab Agriculture Department is actively working on increasing cotton yield and seed development. He added that Cotton Connect, being an international organization, can support Punjab in improving cotton production and can collaborate with the Agriculture Department in this effort. The Provincial Minister urged Cotton Connect to train cotton farmers after floodwaters recede and to present a comprehensive action plan for increasing cotton production in Punjab. He also suggested that Primark should consider opening its retail stores in Pakistan.
Mr Neil La Croix, head of the visiting delegation, expressed readiness to collaborate with the Punjab Government to enhance cotton production and to train local farmers for enhancing cotton yields.
Dr Imran Hashmi, Director, Punjab Board of Investment and Trade, was also present during the meeting held at PSIC House.