Talks underway to acquire second generation Bollgard II BT cotton technology

The Punjab government and Monsanto Pakistan have started negotiations for acquiring the second generation Bollgard II BT cotton technology in order to strengthen and support the declining cotton sector which otherwise remained a major driver of the economy. The 2015-16 performance alone shaved off 0.5% from the GDP growth. Pakistan's textile exports are also significantly dependent on the cotton crop.
Latest seed technology will allow for greater cotton yield and farm productivity while contributing to the rural economy and earning valuable foreign exchange. It is hoped that use of latest technology may add to 15 percent to the production of cotton crop.
This was the crux of a discussion with selective journalists arranged by the Monsanto on the topic of modern cotton technologies here on Monday. Monsanto Pakistan's Regulatory Affairs Lead Muhammad Asim and Azeem Khan Niazi Corporate Engagements and Government Affairs Lead said that the talks are at a very initial stage but the provincial government was cognisant of the importance of use of latest technology for increasing cotton production with high quality fiber. Regarding Sindh, they said they had adopted an indifferent attitude but looking towards the developments in Punjab to follow the suit. He said being a world leader in GM cotton technology the company was approached by Punjab government for the introduction of its latest GM cotton technologies in Pakistan along with other technology providers that showed less warm response.
"The government and Monsanto is negotiating an arrangement that would be beneficial for the farmers, long-term sustainable growth of the seed and cotton industries while a formal announcement would be made once the both parties will reach at a final agreement," he said. He said the third and fourth generation technology could also be introduced but the financial business model would not be viable for both the company and the government. It is better to start with Bollgard II which later may lead to third and fourth generations of the technology.
He admitted that the area under cultivation in Punjab has shrunk besides declining productivity. Multiple factors are involved in this decline including the low productivity of the crop and incentives and prices on other substitute crops. Thus the farmers have been switching to other crops, he agreed. Contrary to this, the weather and climate situation in Sindh is different than Punjab while area under cotton crop cultivation has not declined, Asim said, adding the Sindh government usually follows the pattern of Punjab government in agricultural policies. So, once the Punjab government and Monsanto strike a deal, they may also follow the same, he expressed his hope.
He said the Punjab government will provide the enabling environment through enforcement of existing laws/rules while Monsanto will take meaningful steps and dedicate adequate resources to create R&D hub and ensure a viable and sustainable seed supply through a vibrant seed industry.