Islamabad: Pakistan’s textiles and apparel industry has reported a notable growth in exports, achieving a 19% increase and reaching a historical high of $6.2 billion in the first eight months of the financial year 2024-25. This development comes amidst global economic challenges and domestic hurdles, as highlighted in a recent meeting led by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan.

During the meeting, which included Mr. Shakeel Ahmed Mangnejo, Special Secretary, Commerce, and Mr. Mudassar Raza Siddiqi, Director General (Textile), the Commerce Ministry reviewed the sector’s performance. Mr. Siddiqi noted the industry’s resilience and its growth rate of 9.3% compared to the previous year. The Federal Minister acknowledged this performance as a reflection of the government’s focus on exporting value-added finished products.

A significant topic of discussion was Pakistan’s drop from the third to the sixth largest cotton producer globally. Mr. Siddiqi compared Pakistan’s cotton yield with Brazil’s, citing Brazil’s higher yield due to advanced agricultural practices. The Federal Minister emphasized the importance of adopting similar practices in Pakistan to boost cotton production.

Mr. Siddiqi presented a comprehensive work plan to further enhance the sector’s growth. The plan includes measures to reduce manufacturing costs, expand into non-traditional markets, and focus on high-value finished products. It also suggests simplifying trade barriers and aligning academic activities with industry needs.

Minister Jam Kamal expressed optimism about the future of the textiles and apparel sector. He underscored the importance of strategic interventions to unlock the sector’s full potential, emphasizing the need to explore new markets and uplift Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

This growth in apparel exports is seen as a positive step in contributing to the socio-economic development of Pakistan, with the government committed to supporting the industry through collaborative efforts and supportive policies.