Karachi: Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh, the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, emphasized the critical role of Pakistan’s maritime sector in facilitating the import of used clothing during the fiscal year 2023-2024. While addressing the ‘National Policy Dialogue on Circularity and Used Textile Trade in Pakistan,’ he revealed that over 430,000 metric tons of second-hand textiles arrived in Pakistan, supported by the nation’s port and shipping infrastructure.
According to Press Information Department, the Minister acknowledged the collaboration of the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the European Union (EU) in the Circularity and Used Textiles Trade Project. He highlighted the importance of efficient handling of these imports for supporting local economies, job creation, and textile recycling efforts. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs is focusing on improving port efficiency and container management to ensure cost-effective and timely processing of these goods.
Additionally, the Ministry is engaged in developing waste sorting hubs for textile reuse and recycling, which is crucial for managing textile waste and reducing the environmental impact of global textile trade. The Minister also mentioned the commitment to implementing regulations to limit pollutants from textile shipments to protect marine ecosystems, along with introducing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies to promote responsible textile recycling and reuse.
Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh outlined the Ministry’s exploration of green shipping alternatives, such as cleaner fuels and energy-efficient technologies, to reduce carbon emissions. These initiatives align with international environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and reinforce Pakistan’s role in the circular economy. The Ministry is working closely with international partners like UNEP and the EU to develop policies that enhance Pakistan’s role in the global textile trade, aiming to address textile waste challenges and advance recycling efforts.
Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs aspires to position Pakistan as a leader in sustainable maritime practices, contributing to global goals of environmental sustainability and circular economic growth.