In a bid to strengthen Pakistan’s economy through better trade and exports, leading exporters, industrialists, and the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) are urging the government to introduce a business-friendly textile policy. They are calling for quick action to implement a Strategic Textile Policy Framework (STPF) that prioritizes the growth of the export sector.
Experts emphasize the need for a practical and sustainable policy that works. Many initiatives from the previous 2020-2025 policies were not fully executed, leaving the industry without the support it needs. KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani and Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers Association (PHMA) Central Chairman Muhammad Babar Khan have highlighted the importance of refining and finalizing these policies as they are set to expire soon.
The stakeholders are asking for clear and actionable policies created in consultation with KCCI, PHMA, and other key export associations. This collaboration will ensure the frameworks address unresolved issues and provide a strong foundation for boosting the textile sector.
One significant factor for Pakistan’s export success has been the European Union’s GSP Plus status, which allows Pakistan to compete with other countries like Bangladesh in the global market. Over half of Pakistan’s exports go to the EU under this program. Stakeholders urge the government to take the necessary steps to retain this status, as it has been vital for keeping the country’s exports strong. They stress that Pakistan must also meet its international commitments, including upholding human rights and other global agreements.
Exporters are also concerned about challenges like gas, electricity, and water shortages. High utility costs make Pakistani products more expensive and less competitive in global markets. The PHMA Central Chairman has requested KCCI’s help in addressing these issues and has suggested including PHMA representatives in export-related committees to better represent their interests.
According to Abdul Rehman Fudda, a prominent exporter and member of the Pakistan-EU Business Forum, exporters are not looking for special favors but simply want fair treatment. He highlighted the need for matching energy costs, easier tax processes, and no sales tax on input materials and export services to make Pakistani goods competitive globally.
Fudda also emphasized the importance of supporting industries like textile machinery, accessory production, and chemical manufacturing to reduce reliance on imports. He proposed offering industrialists long-term land leases with affordable installment plans and lower taxes for new factories during their first five years. These measures, he said, would attract both local and foreign investments, boosting the country’s economy.
Additionally, Fudda recommended the full operation of the National Compliance Centre (NCC) to simplify international certification processes for exporters. He also suggested setting up display centers at airports to showcase Pakistani products and provide export information.
KCCI’s president welcomed these proposals and encouraged PHMA to work closely with them to strengthen Pakistan’s global competitiveness. Greater collaboration between organizations and exporters can unlock the full potential of the textile sector, resolve ongoing challenges, and drive economic growth.
