Pakistan’s textile and apparel (T&A) exports increased by 10.44 per cent to $6.146 billion during the first four months of fiscal year 2024-25, spanning July-October 2024. As per a report by All-Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), this achievement highlights the sector’s resilience, adaptability, and competitiveness in the face of global economic challenges.
Several key segments contributed to this surge in exports, demonstrating the sector’s strong performance. The country’s knitwear exports increased by 18.69 per centY-o-Y to $1.76 billion.
Exports of non-knit readymade garments grew by 25.40 per cent to $1.36 billion. Bedwear exports rose by 13.17 per cent to $1.07 billion while cotton fabric exports increased by 5.25 per cent, to $679.43 million. These gains reflect the industry’s ability to adapt to shifting global demand while consistently delivering high-quality products.
Despite the export surge, import trends present a mixed picture, revealing both challenges and opportunities for the sector. Imports of synthetic fibers declined by 23.07 per cent Y-o-Y to $138.82 million. This drop indicates a shift toward either greater domestic production or reduced reliance on synthetic materials due to changing market preferences and production techniques. Industry insiders suggest that the decline may also reflect a strategic focus on optimizing costs by sourcing alternatives locally.
The mixed nature of import trends underscores the importance of strategic investment. While reduced synthetic fiber imports could indicate progress toward self-sufficiency, the rise in machinery imports reflects forward-looking efforts to modernize and remain competitive.
Experts believe that sustained growth in exports will depend on the industry’s ability to balance cost-effective production with ongoing technological advancement. APTMA remains committed to fostering growth and sustaining this positive export trajectory.
The association is working closely with industry stakeholders to promote innovation, improve quality standards, and expand into new markets. The recent rise in exports reflects the success of these efforts, but APTMA’s leadership acknowledges that sustained investment in infrastructure and modernization will be critical in maintaining momentum.
