Cotton fumigation operations have effectively stopped in Pakistan due to a clearance dispute over imported Methyl Bromide.
The dispute has left around 400–500 containers of imported cotton stranded at the port. According to the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), the disruption is causing losses of more than Rs. 10 million every day.
APTMA has urged the government to resolve the issue immediately. The association warned that the disruption could cause raw-material shortages, delay export orders and hurt Pakistan’s textile exports.
Methyl Bromide Classification Dispute
The issue began after customs changed the classification of Methyl Bromide.
APTMA said authorities previously cleared the chemical under PCT code 3808.9170. The product was also exempt from sales tax under that classification.
However, Public Notice No. 49/2026 changed the classification. The notice, issued on May 19, 2026, placed Methyl Bromide under PCT code 2903.6100.
The new classification makes the product subject to 18 percent sales tax.
APTMA said a consignment imported by National Chemicals remains uncleared because of the dispute. The consignment was filed under GD No. KPPI-HC 8681-66-08-2026.
Imported Cotton Stuck at Port
The problem now affects more than the Methyl Bromide consignment.
APTMA said the dispute has effectively blocked the clearance of imported cotton that requires fumigation.
Around 400–500 cotton containers have reportedly remained at the port for more than a week. Textile mills are now facing demurrage and other costs of more than Rs. 10 million per day.
The association said imported cotton is a critical raw material for Pakistan’s export-oriented textile industry.
Long delays could leave textile mills short of raw materials. They could also disrupt production and delay export orders.
APTMA Warns of Export Risks
APTMA warned that continued disruption could affect Pakistan’s export earnings.
The association also said delays could damage the country’s international credibility.
Textile manufacturers depend on a steady supply of imported cotton. Any prolonged disruption could therefore create wider problems for the industry.
APTMA has asked the government to take urgent action to restore normal cotton clearance.
APTMA Proposes Emergency Measures
APTMA has proposed a one-time emergency solution to the problem.
The association has asked the government to release the Methyl Bromide consignment provisionally under Section 81 of the Customs Act, 1969.
APTMA has also suggested another option. The government could allow the affected cotton consignments to leave the port without fumigation as a one-time measure.
Under this proposal, industrial users would provide undertakings. They would confirm that the imported cotton is free from pest infestation.
APTMA has called for immediate government intervention. The association wants cotton clearance restored before the disruption causes further losses to Pakistan’s textile industry and exports.
