Cotton fumigation operations have stopped across Pakistan due to a clearance dispute. The issue involves imported Methyl Bromide used for fumigation.
The disruption has left around 400 to 500 containers of imported cotton stranded at the port. The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) reported the situation.
APTMA said the industry is facing losses of more than Rs. 10 million every day. The association has urged the government to resolve the matter immediately.
The group warned that prolonged delays could create raw material shortages. Textile mills may also face difficulties in meeting production requirements.
The disruption could affect export orders as well. Delayed production may make it harder for manufacturers to complete shipments on time.
APTMA also warned about possible effects on Pakistan’s textile export earnings. The textile sector is heavily dependent on imported cotton for export-oriented production.
The dispute started after a change in the customs classification of Methyl Bromide. APTMA said the chemical previously had a different customs classification.
The product was earlier cleared under PCT code 3808.9170. According to APTMA, it was also exempt from sales tax under that classification.
However, Public Notice No. 49/2026 changed its classification. The notice was issued on May 19, 2026.
Under the new classification, Methyl Bromide falls under PCT code 2903.6100. The revised classification makes the product subject to 18 percent sales tax.
APTMA said one imported consignment has remained uncleared. The shipment was imported by National Chemicals under GD No. KPPI-HC 8681-66-08-2026.
The association said the problem now extends beyond the chemical shipment. It has also affected the clearance of imported cotton requiring fumigation.
Around 400 to 500 containers have reportedly remained stuck for more than a week. Textile mills are also facing rising demurrage and related port expenses.
APTMA said these costs have exceeded Rs. 10 million per day. The continued delay could increase financial pressure on textile manufacturers.
Imported cotton is an important raw material for Pakistan’s textile industry. Mills use it to manufacture products for domestic and international markets.
APTMA warned that shortages could disrupt production at textile mills. Export orders could also face delays if the situation continues.
The association said continued disruption could harm Pakistan’s export earnings. It may also affect the country’s reputation among international buyers.
APTMA has proposed an emergency solution to address the issue. It wants the Methyl Bromide consignment released provisionally under Section 81.
The provision is part of the Customs Act, 1969. APTMA described this as a possible one-time measure.
The association has also suggested another temporary option. Affected cotton consignments could be released without fumigation on a one-time basis.
Industrial users would provide undertakings under this proposal. They would confirm that the imported cotton is free from pest infestation.
APTMA has called for immediate government intervention. It said swift action is necessary to restore cotton clearance and prevent further industry losses.
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The association expects the government to address the classification dispute. A resolution could help resume fumigation and ease pressure on textile mills.
