The agriculture sector in Pakistan witnessed robust growth in 2023-24, with an overall increase of 6.25%, contributing significantly to the economy, according to the finance minister. During 2023-24, cotton cultivation increased to 2.4 million hectares from 2.1 million hectares last year, showing a growth of 13.1%. Sugarcane, however, saw a decrease in cultivation area by 10.5%, from 1.3 million hectares last year to 1.2 million hectares this year. Maize cultivation decreased by 4.5%, from 1.7 million hectares last year to 1.6 million hectares this year. Wheat, the staple crop, saw an increase in cultivation area to 9.6 million hectares from last year’s 9.0 million hectares, showing a growth of 6.6%.

Source: The Express Tribune June 12, 2024 16:16 UTC