Economic Performance and Sustainability of Cotton Farming in Sindh, Pakistan: A Cost–Benefit and Green Management Perspective

Economic Performance of Cotton Farming in Sindh

Abstract

Cotton is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s agricultural and industrial economy; however, its cultivation faces increasing sustainability challenges due to rising input costs, water scarcity, climatic variability, and market inefficiencies. This study evaluates the economic performance and sustainability of cotton farming in Sindh, Pakistan, using a cost–benefit and green management perspective. Primary data were collected from 120 cotton growers in Jamshoro and Sanghar districts through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, cost–benefit analysis, and regression analysis were employed to assess profitability and determinants of net income. Results show that the average cost of cotton production was Rs. 135,900 per acre, while average gross revenue was Rs. 216,900 per acre, yielding a mean net income of Rs. 81,000 per acre. The average cotton yield was 26 maunds per acre, with a mean market price of Rs. 8,100 per maund. The benefit–cost ratio ranged from 0.28 to 0.80, with an average value of 0.54, indicating vulnerability to rising input costs and price volatility. Regression results revealed that education (β = 1,250, p < 0.05), farming experience (β = 430, p < 0.05), and farm size (β = 2,980, p < 0.01) positively influenced net income, whereas fertilizer cost (β = −0.45, p < 0.05) and irrigation frequency (β = −1,620, p < 0.05) negatively affected profitability. The model explained 62% of the variation in net income (R² = 0.62). The findings emphasize efficient input use, farmer capacity building, and water-efficient practices aligned with green management and circular economy principles to enhance sustainable cotton production in Sindh