Pakistan’s apparel exports reached a historic high of $6.2 billion in the first eight months of the 2024-25 financial year, reflecting a 19% increase compared to the same period last year.
Industry Performance and Challenges
During a meeting at the Ministry of Commerce, Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan was briefed by Special Secretary Shakeel Ahmed Mangnejo and Director General (Textile) Mudassar Raza Siddiqi on the sector’s performance and strategic direction.
-
The textile industry recorded 9.3% growth in the first eight months of FY 2024-25.
-
Pakistan’s global ranking in cotton production has declined from third to sixth place.
Comparative Analysis: Pakistan vs. Brazil
Pakistan and Brazil have similar cotton acreage, yet Brazil’s yield per hectare is three times higher due to:
-
Adoption of high-tech seed varieties
-
Precision agriculture and mechanized harvesting
-
Rainfed irrigation and renewable energy integration
Strategic Roadmap for Growth
The Director General (Textile) outlined a Short to Long-Term Work Plan to enhance the sector’s performance, focusing on:
-
Cost reduction in manufacturing to improve competitiveness
-
Expansion into high-value-added technical textiles
-
Targeted market penetration and entry into non-traditional markets
-
Simplification of trade barriers and improved market access
-
Development of MSMEs and support for export-centric R&D initiatives
Government’s Policy Direction
Minister Jam Kamal Khan emphasized the need for:
-
Introduction of disease-resistant and climate-resilient cotton seed varieties
-
Regulation of seed and chemical quality to protect local farmers
-
Implementation of strategic policies to enhance the textile sector’s global competitiveness
With a comprehensive policy framework and industry collaboration, Pakistan aims to further accelerate its textile and apparel exports, positioning itself as a key player in the global market.
