Pakistan’s Apparel Exports Reach Historic $6.2B

Pakistan’s apparel exports hit a record $6.2 billion in the first eight months of FY 2024-25, marking a 19% growth compared to the same period last year. The textile sector, recovering from economic headwinds, also reported a 9.3% growth rate.

The figures were shared with Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan in a meeting with Special Secretary Shakeel Ahmed Mangnejo and DG (Textile) Mudassar Raza Siddiqi. Officials noted that Pakistan has slipped from third to sixth place globally in cotton production, highlighting the need for climate-resilient seed varieties, mechanized farming, and better regulations to boost local yield.

To sustain growth, the Ministry of Commerce unveiled a short-to-long-term plan focusing on reducing manufacturing costs, expanding high-value exports, accessing new markets, simplifying trade barriers, and aligning R&D with industry needs. The strategy also includes support for SMEs and sustainability initiatives.

The minister emphasized Pakistan’s complete textile value chain as a competitive advantage and stressed the need for strategic reforms to enhance exports. With strong policy support and industry collaboration, the government aims to further strengthen the textile sector’s global standing.