Local sporting goods spark new economic prospects
A Pakistani worker stitches a pink cricket ball at the Grays of Cambridge factory in Sialkot. Pakistan's sports goods industry is positioning itself to be the prime manufacturer of pink cricket balls -- a high-visibility alternative for use in day-night Test matches aimed at dragging the game into the 21st century. PHOTO: AFP
Pakistan’s storied tradition of crafting top-tier sports goods, ranging from footballs and basketballs to cricket equipment, is positioned to blaze new trails on the international stage. While the country’s skilled artisans are acclaimed for their craftsmanship, limitations in accessing global markets have held back the industry’s growth.
Commercial Counsellor of the Pakistani Embassy in China, Ghulam Qadir underlines the transformative potential of China as a collaborator. Leveraging China’s status as the world’s premier manufacturing giant, with cutting-edge technology and extensive trade networks, Pakistan’s sports industry stands to embrace transformative growth.
“Exports of Pakistan’s basketballs, footballs, and volleyballs to China have surged from $4.22 million to $5.53 million in the first half of this year alone,” Qadir revealed, highlighting the dynamic trade relationship. Additionally, he noted a promising trajectory for sports equipment used in outdoor games and swim/paddling pools.
Qadir emphasised that China’s technological prowess has revolutionised Pakistan’s sports goods sector. Collaboration has granted local manufacturers access to advanced machinery, innovative production techniques, and stringent quality control. This infusion of expertise has not only elevated the products’ quality but also amplified production efficiency, enabling the industry to cater to the escalating demands of global markets.
Sony Iqbal, Chairman of Pakistan’s Small & Medium Enterprise (SMEs) Association, extolled the advantages of collaboration. “Chinese methods, technology, and efficient supply chain management can substantially slash production costs for manufacturers,” Iqbal stated. Embracing Chinese technologies can lead to higher quality and cost-effective Pakistani sports goods, reinforcing their appeal in the global marketplace.
The multifaceted benefits of China’s expansive trade networks and global influence have cast open doors for Pakistan’s sports goods industry. Collaborations with Chinese manufacturers and distributors have ushered Pakistani companies into diverse international markets. Strengthening the partnership, Iqbal urged the Pakistani government to support SMEs through subsidies, fortifying their domestic and international endeavours.
Addressing the need for innovation, Iqbal highlighted the industry’s evolving trajectory. He observed that Pakistan’s sports industry has transcended traditional paradigms to cater to a diverse global audience. The industry’s shift towards innovative designs caters to the varying preferences of sports enthusiasts across different regions.
As Pakistan navigates a path towards global excellence, industry experts and traders underscored the critical importance of domestic infrastructure development, innovation, and investments in research and development.
THE ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED ON THE CHINA ECONOMIC NET
Published in The Express Tribune, August 5th, 2023.
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