Textile sector asked to make high-quality products

Gilani says govt is taking steps to bring improvement in industry

ISLAMABAD:

Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that the government is taking significant steps to bring about improvement in Pakistan's textile industry, which contributes 60% to the national economy.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 7th International Conference on Textiles titled "Inspiring Change: Challenges and Strides are the Wings of Success," Gilani stressed the critical role the sector was playing in economic growth and employment.

He pointed out that millions of families depended on the textile industry for their livelihood, underscoring its importance in providing jobs to a large number of workers.

Gilani, also the former prime minister, highlighted Pakistan's potential to produce high-quality cotton – the backbone of the textile sector – and called for enhanced research and development work to improve the quality of cotton while reducing reliance on imported raw materials.

The Senate chairman urged the industry to produce innovative and high-quality textile products and noted that lessening reliance on government subsidies would help make the sector more self-sufficient.

He emphasised that the sector should stay competitive globally through strengthening research and development efforts from the cultivation of cotton to the production of finished textile products.

Gilani underlined the need for advancement in both traditional and modern segments of the textile industry, adding that the Senate also played a key role in formulating legislation for sustainable industrial growth.

He assured businessmen that the government was committed to providing cutting-edge technology to the industry, which was essential for its modernisation. Acknowledging the talented students at the event, Gilani praised the role of educational institutions in developing new techniques and designs for the textile industry. He expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan's textile sector.

US Consul General in Lahore Kristin K Hawkins, while speaking at the conference, highlighted the strong business ties between Pakistan and the United States. On the occasion, Gilani presented awards to the outstanding participants in recognition of their contribution to the textile industry.

According to a news report, Pakistani textile firms are reportedly receiving additional export orders from global buyers due to rising costs and political instability in competitor Bangladesh, along with international restrictions on China. As a result, the industry's exports hit a 26-month high of $1.64 billion in August 2024, marking a significant 13% increase compared to the same month of last year.