Initiative focuses on non-GMO cotton seed availability, quality testing and greater transparency across the supply chain

Brussels/Islamabad, (Unib Rashid) – Pakistan’s organic cotton sector faces significant challenges, including limited access to quality seeds, concerns over seed purity and the need for greater transparency across the supply chain. To address these issues and support the expansion of sustainable cotton production, SAWiE Ecosystems and the Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) are working together to strengthen the availability of non-genetically modified (non-GMO) cotton seeds on a commercial scale.

The collaboration aims to improve access to reliable non-GMO cotton seeds, maintain genetic purity, strengthen quality testing systems and ensure that farmers can obtain dependable planting material. These efforts form part of broader initiatives to expand organic cotton cultivation in Pakistan and improve the sector’s ability to meet the requirements of international markets.

Ensuring Access to Quality Organic Cotton Seeds

The availability of suitable seeds is essential for organic cotton production. Farmers need seeds that meet established quality standards and are free from genetically modified varieties to support compliance with organic production requirements.

When quality seeds are unavailable in sufficient quantities or are not delivered on time, farmers may struggle to maintain organic production standards and meet the expectations of international buyers. A reliable seed supply is therefore considered a key requirement for the long-term development of Pakistan’s organic cotton industry.

SAWiE-OCA Collaboration to Strengthen Seed Production

According to the Organic Cotton Accelerator, a project to make organic cotton seeds available on a commercial scale in Pakistan was launched in 2024. The initiative involves SAWiE Ecosystems and four seed-providing organisations: Hyacinth Seeds, 360 AG Search, Soorty and the Rural Business Development Center (RBDC).

The project focuses on strengthening seed multiplication and production systems across Sindh, Punjab and Balochistan. Its key objectives include maintaining genetic purity, monitoring seed multiplication processes and improving the commercial availability of quality seeds for cotton growers.

Under the initiative, seed multiplication activities have been planned across approximately 100 acres, with a target of producing around 40 tonnes of non-GMO cotton seeds. This figure represents the project’s anticipated production target rather than a confirmed final output.

Greater Focus on Seed Quality and Supply Chain Transparency

An important component of the initiative is the improvement of seed quality testing, traceability and quality assurance systems. These measures are intended to make it easier to monitor seeds throughout the supply chain, from production and multiplication to their delivery to farmers.

The partnership also seeks to strengthen the capacity of seed-producing organisations, promote improved seed multiplication practices and build greater confidence in Pakistan’s organic cotton supply chain.

Industry experts note that sustainable growth in organic cotton production requires more than simply expanding cultivated acreage. A consistent supply of quality seeds, effective testing mechanisms, farmer training and access to markets are also essential for developing a competitive and sustainable industry.

Moving Towards Commercial Availability

On August 11, 2026, SAWiE Ecosystems and the Organic Cotton Accelerator jointly held an event in Lahore focusing on making organic cotton seeds commercially available.

The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to address seed supply constraints and establish a more reliable foundation for organic cotton production in Pakistan. Strengthening the availability, quality and traceability of non-GMO cotton seeds could help farmers maintain production standards while supporting the country’s position in international sustainable textile supply chains.

As global textile markets increasingly focus on sustainability and responsible sourcing, improving access to reliable organic cotton seeds remains an important step towards expanding Pakistan’s role in the sustainable cotton and textile sector.