Karachi, The Employers’ Federation of Pakistan (EFP) and the German agency for international cooperation, GIZ, have held an exclusive meeting to develop a joint strategy aimed at addressing challenges and advancing the textile sector in Sindh, particularly in Karachi. This collaboration is set to focus on sustainability, compliance with international standards, and overall sector enhancement.

According to Employers’ Federation of Pakistan, brought together representatives from both organizations to discuss critical issues impacting the textile industry. The EFP team comprised President Malik Tahir Javaid, Former President Majyd Aziz, Director Humayun Nazir, and Secretary General Syed Nazar Ali. GIZ was represented by Yulia Bazhenova, Paul Steimer, and Noor Khan.

A key topic of discussion was the adherence to the International Labour Organization (ILO) International Labour Environment Standards and the Sustainable Development Projects of GIZ. Both organizations agreed on common objectives to improve the sustainability and viability of the textile sector in Pakistan. The focus areas include compliance with occupational safety and health, gender equality, employment of people with disabilities and marginalized populations, and ensuring environmental compliance in the textile sector.

The importance of the textile sector to Pakistan’s economy was highlighted, with an emphasis on its role as a major exporter and employer, contributing significantly to the country’s foreign revenue. EFP and GIZ agreed on the need to ensure the sector’s adherence to international labor and environment standards, the ILO Better Work Program, and the core conditions set by international brands.

The meeting also addressed the need to enhance productivity and efficiency in the textile sector, reduce wastage and absenteeism, and mitigate environmental impact. The Secretary General of EFP presented a PowerPoint explaining the initiatives undertaken by the federation.

This collaboration between EFP and GIZ marks a significant step towards strengthening Pakistan’s textile sector by focusing on sustainable practices, international compliance, and overall sector improvement.