Pakistani exporters have reached a remarkable milestone by securing export orders totaling $3 billion at Heimtextil, the world’s most significant textile trade fair held in Frankfurt, Germany. This achievement marks a substantial success for Pakistan’s textile industry, providing a crucial boost, especially for the textile hub of Faisalabad.

Imran Mehmood, the Central Chairman of the All Pakistan Bedsheet and Upholstery Manufacturers Association (APBUMA), underscored the importance of these orders and their potential to rejuvenate the sector. He highlighted the government’s ambitious goal to increase exports from $30 billion to $100 billion within the next five years, which necessitates immediate action to tackle key challenges facing the textile industry.

Mehmood identified rising costs of electricity, gas, and raw materials such as yarn as major pressures on the industry, making it challenging for Pakistan to stay competitive in global markets. He called on the government to take swift measures to reduce these costs and enhance the sector’s overall competitiveness.

He also emphasized the vital role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in driving economic growth. By providing low-interest loans to SMEs, production capacity could be increased, more jobs created, and the sector’s contribution to Pakistan’s economy strengthened. He suggested that the State Bank of Pakistan, along with APBUMA, should oversee the loan disbursement to ensure transparency.

This significant achievement at Heimtextil not only highlights the potential of Pakistan’s textile industry but also underscores the urgent need for government support to address existing challenges. With the right policies and initiatives, the sector could substantially boost Pakistan’s economic growth and improve its position in international trade.
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