INP-WealthPk

Promoting hemp as cash crop can revolutionize textile sector

February 04, 2025

Muhammad Saleem

Promoting hemp as a cash crop can help revolutionise the textile sector of Pakistan. Shehryar Ahmed of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, told WealthPK that the varsity is working to introduce hemp as a cash crop in Pakistan. He said that hemp is a versatile plant requiring less water and is quite-resistant to pesticides. “This plant has a tremendous potential of growth as it grows quickly and fits various soil types.” Besides, he said that hemp fibers are known for their strength and durability.

“By using hemp fibers, millers can enhance the quality of textiles.” Ahmed said the university recently organised a workshop where experts from various sectors stressed the need for focusing on promoting hemp as a cash crop. Ahmed pointed out that hemp is eco-friendly, and its cultivation can significantly play its role in cleaning the environment. “Industrial hemp can help minimise the carbon footprint,” he added. Ameer Ahmed, a textile exporter, told WealthPK that the textile sector is the mainstay of the national economy.

He emphasised that the government must introduce methods to promote eco-friendly crops. “For years, we have been grappling with the issues of low cotton production, which disrupts the entire textile sector chain,” he said, adding that it's praiseworthy that the government is taking steps to improve cotton production. “We need a long-term solution to this issue.” Dr Umer, an agricultural scientist, said that as compared to cotton hemp textiles use 70% less water. Hemp is a lifeline for water-scarce regions.

“We must train our farmers to adopt this crop,” he added. Besides, he said hemp can also revitalise farmland for long-term productivity by improving soil structure and reducing erosion. “By developing hemp as an industry requires strategic and gradual supply chain planning,” he said, adding that they have created prototypes, including fabric and knitwear, in collaboration with the industry. Ameer Ahmed, a textile exporter, said: “We need hemp textiles that offer a sustainable pathway to prosperity.”

“Our competitors are supporting their exporters' growth, while we struggle with limited cotton supplies, high raw material costs, and expensive energy,” he noted. Umer, an agricultural scientist, said: “We need to shore up the financial position of our farmers and unlock opportunities for processors to thrive.” “By sticking to traditional crops, we cannot turn the tide in our favour. We have to adopt modern varieties like hemp to move forward,” he added. “By engaging local communities, we can bolster the textile sector of Pakistan by introducing hemp as a cash crop,” he noted.

 

Credit: INP-WealthPk