Islamabad, Mar 22, 2025: Federal Minister for Commerce, Mr. Jam Kamal Khan, recently chaired a key meeting at the Ministry of Commerce, accompanied by Special Secretary Mr. Shakeel Ahmed Mangnejo and Director General (Textile) Mr. Mudassar Raza Siddiqi.
The session focused on evaluating Pakistan’s textile and apparel industry and devising strategies to further enhance its export performance.
During the briefing, Mr. Siddiqi highlighted that the textile and apparel sector, a crucial pillar of Pakistan’s economy, has shown remarkable resilience amid economic uncertainties.
The industry recorded an impressive 9.3% growth in the first eight months of the current fiscal year 2024-25, surpassing the figures from the same period last year.
Notably, apparel exports surged by 19%, reaching a record-breaking $6.2 billion.
The Minister acknowledged the government’s unwavering commitment to boosting value-added product exports while maximizing local raw material utilization.
However, concerns were raised regarding Pakistan’s declining position in the global cotton industry.
Once ranked as the third-largest cotton producer, the country has now dropped to the sixth position.
Drawing a comparison with Brazil, Mr. Siddiqi pointed out that both nations have similar agricultural land allocations, yet Brazil’s cotton yield per hectare is three times higher.
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Brazil’s adoption of advanced seed technologies, precision farming, mechanized harvesting, rain-fed irrigation, and renewable energy integration causes this disparity.
To regain Pakistan’s competitive edge, he stressed the need for high-yield, climate-resilient seed varieties, stringent regulation of uncertified seeds and chemicals, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.
After assessing trade barriers, regional competition, and global market dynamics, Mr. Siddiqi presented a comprehensive strategy for short, medium, and long-term growth.
The plan includes reducing manufacturing costs, scaling up production, organizing targeted marketing campaigns, focusing on high-value technical textiles, and expanding into non-traditional markets.
Additionally, the plan outlines key priorities such as easing non-tariff barriers, securing market access, promoting sustainability, encouraging export-driven R&D, aligning academia with industry needs, and strengthening MSMEs.
Minister Jam Kamal Khan emphasized that Pakistan possesses a complete textile and apparel value chain, making it a significant player in global trade.
To unlock the sector’s full potential, he stressed the importance of strategic policy implementation, fostering innovation, and addressing industry challenges.
He expressed confidence that through collaborative efforts, increased market diversification, and supportive policies, Pakistan’s textile exports will witness substantial growth, further contributing to the nation’s economic prosperity.
