Pakistan’s Apparel Exports Reach $6.2 Billion Amid Strategic Growth Plan

Pakistan’s apparel exports have reached a significant milestone, totaling $6.2 billion during the first eight months of the 2024-25 financial year. This represents a notable 19% growth compared to the same period in the previous year, highlighting the sector’s resilience amidst challenging global economic conditions.

The announcement came during a recent meeting between Jam Kamal Khan, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, and key officials from the Ministry of Commerce, including Shakeel Ahmed Mangnejo, Special Secretary of Commerce, and Mudassar Raza Siddiqi, Director General of Textile. The meeting underscored the robust performance of Pakistan’s textiles and apparel industry despite external and internal challenges.

Resilient Industry Performance

Mudassar Raza Siddiqi, in his briefing, emphasized that Pakistan’s textile sector has regained momentum, showing a growth rate of 9.3% during the current financial year. Despite these positive figures, Siddiqi pointed out that the country’s position in global cotton production has diminished, with Pakistan now ranking sixth, down from its previous position as the third-largest producer.

Siddiqi also drew comparisons with Brazil, noting that both countries have similar crop acreages. However, Brazil’s cotton yield per hectare is three times higher, thanks to advanced agricultural technologies, including high-tech seed varieties, precision farming methods, and renewable energy-driven irrigation systems.

Strategy for Boosting Cotton Production

In response, Minister Jam Kamal Khan highlighted the importance of adopting climate-resilient, disease-resistant cotton seeds and improving local agricultural practices. He stressed that enhancing cotton yields would be crucial for the long-term sustainability and profitability of Pakistan’s cotton farmers. The minister also advocated for tighter controls on uncertified seeds and chemicals in the local market, which could help improve cotton quality and increase production.

Long-Term Growth Plan for the Textile Sector

During the meeting, Mudassar Raza Siddiqi presented a comprehensive strategy aimed at increasing textile exports in the short, medium, and long term. The plan includes several key interventions: reducing manufacturing costs, promoting economies of scale, expanding into non-traditional markets, and increasing the export of high-value finished products, including technical textiles.

Additionally, the strategy focuses on simplifying trade barriers, encouraging sustainability initiatives, facilitating export-centric research and development, and developing a robust Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) development program. These steps are designed to address the challenges the industry faces while unlocking new growth opportunities.

Optimism for Future Growth

Jam Kamal Khan expressed optimism regarding the future of Pakistan’s textile and apparel exports. He reiterated that Pakistan’s unique advantage lies in its complete textile value chain, which gives the country a competitive edge. He emphasized that with the right policies and strategic interventions, Pakistan could significantly increase its exports and bolster the sector’s position in the global market.

The minister’s comments reflect a strong belief in the potential of Pakistan’s textiles and apparel sector to continue thriving with government support and industry collaboration.