Pakistan gets warm response at Heimtextil

Besides textile, carpet exporters also participating to give push to faltering industry

FRANKFURT:

The world's largest home textile exhibition, Heimtextil 2026, has kicked off, where Pakistani products are receiving an encouraging response from international buyers. Alongside home textile manufacturers, Pakistani carpet exporters are also participating in the expo, raising hopes for the revival of the country's declining carpet industry.

Pakistan is participating in Heimtextil as the fourth-largest exhibiting country. The global exhibition, which began on January 13 in Frankfurt, Germany, features 3,100 exhibitors from 65 countries.

Pakistan's presence has expanded significantly this year, with a total of 285 companies showcasing a wide range of home textile products to global buyers and delegates. For the first time, Pakistani carpets are also being introduced, with 11 carpet exporters taking part.

Considering the commercial importance of the event, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan has set up a national pavilion, hosting stalls of 58 small and medium-sized export-oriented companies.

Exporters participating in the exhibition said Heimtextil is one of the most important platforms for accessing the European market, enabling direct engagement with buyers and providing valuable insight into European demand, quality standards and market trends.

Chaudhry Ejaz Ahmed & Sons Marketing Manager Muhammad Hafeez said he has been participating in the exhibition for the past three years, which has helped increase exports to Europe.

He added that consistent participation builds buyer confidence and allows companies to improve their product lines each year based on market feedback.

Elahi Fabrics Director Sheikh Mubashir Ahmed praised the exhibition arrangements, noting that Pakistani stalls have been allocated spacious locations in high-traffic areas. As a result, he said, visitor flow to Pakistani stalls has remained strong since the first day, boosting business activity.

Nazu International CEO Abdul Hadi said Heimtextil is a vital platform for promoting Pakistan's home textile exports. He noted that European buyers are increasingly prioritising environmentally friendly products, prompting his company to adopt eco-friendly production processes and waste management systems.

He added that Pakistani exporters are shifting towards solar and wind energy to enhance competitiveness, although such transitions require substantial investment.

Hadi further said companies adopting green energy solutions are benefiting from carbon credits, which is also helping improve access to European markets. Exporters believe Heimtextil can play a key role in stabilising Pakistan's declining textile exports.