LAHORE: The Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) has reaffirmed that Pakistan’s textile and apparel sector remains the backbone of national exports, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and employment.
However, rising costs, structural pressures, and local operational disruptions are posing serious risks to sustaining export growth and global competitiveness.
According to the Export Data Analysis for July–November 2025, overall national exports declined by 6.4pc, while textile and apparel exports reached USD 7.84 billion, growing 2.8pc and representing 61pc of total exports. Value-added segments (HS 61–63), including apparel and made-ups, grew by 5pc, whereas traditional textile segments (HS 50–60) continue to face upstream supply chain challenges.
PRGMEA expressed concern over the November 2025 slowdown, noting weakening order pipelines, rising price sensitivity in international markets, and constraints from uncompetitive energy tariffs, rigid labour costs, tax frictions, and limited access to affordable financing.
In response to ongoing operational challenges, PRGMEA urged the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to grant a three-week extension on sales tax filing and payment. The association highlighted that severe logistical disruptions caused by transport strikes are delaying the movement of goods, documentation, and account reconciliation, particularly from upcountry mills to port cities. These delays are beyond the control of registered taxpayers, and PRGMEA called on the FBR to consider an extension to prevent penal consequences and ensure timely compliance.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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