One million bales of cotton export are expected this year in contrast to 375,000 bales last year. Market sources said that an increase in demand for Pakistani yarn cotton and cotton by China and Italy as well as a higher international price for the product are the main reasons for an escalation in exports.

The prices in international market are high as compared to local market and exporters are hopeful to earn Rs 20 billion through cotton exports in the current fiscal year. Sources revealed that Pakistani cotton exporters are targeting markets in China, Indonesia and Far Eastern countries.

Sources maintained that international lint buyers regard Pakistani cotton as number one in quality as well as highly competitive with respect to prices. At present, rate of cotton in the domestic market is Rs 4,000 per maund that is lower compared to the price in the International market that stood at about 68 cents/pound i.e. Rs 4,500 per maund.