Fast-track path replaces seven-year process as Punjab farmers shift to sugarcane and maize
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain. Photo: File
ISLAMABAD:
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has directed that a proposed 12 to 18-month fast-track approval mechanism for imported cotton seed be examined within the existing legal framework, against the roughly seven years required under current procedures.
The proposal, supported by cotton-sector stakeholders, will not compromise mandatory scientific testing, biosecurity or biosafety standards, according to an official statement issued on Thursday after a meeting chaired by the minister on the Cotton Revival Strategy. The meeting reviewed the persistent decline in cotton cultivation, particularly in Punjab, where falling yields, rising production costs and declining profitability have pushed farmers towards sugarcane, maize and other competing crops. Cotton Leaf Curl Virus, pest infestations, climate variability, poor-quality seed and inadequate mechanisation were identified as major constraints.
A three-pronged strategy was considered, focusing on strengthening locally developed cotton seed, facilitating imports of improved seed and introducing the fast-track mechanism.
A three-member committee comprising the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority (NSDRA) and Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC), led by PARC, will be constituted to facilitate acquisition of exotic cotton germplasm.
The minister directed the Department of Plant Protection to expedite pending Pest Risk Analyses and Controlled Import Permits. China has submitted its technical dossier, with additional information requested. Engagement with Türkiye, Syria, Kenya, the United States, Mexico, Kyrgyzstan and Australia remains dependent on their responses.
On crop zoning, NSDRA was directed to expedite processing of promising varieties and ensure basic seed availability, with varieties approved on performance in specific agro-climatic regions rather than uniform national criteria.
