Jam, PCMEA team discuss issues facing handmade carpet industry

ISLAMABAD: In an important meeting between the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) and the Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, key issues facing Pakistan’s handmade carpet industry were discussed, emphasizing the need for immediate government intervention to resolve regional trade barriers and disruptions in the global supply chain.

The PCMEA delegation was led by Patron-in-Chief Abdul Latif Malik, along with Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed, Senior Member Usman Ashraf, and Director General (Textile) Mudassar Raza Siddiqui.

The delegation requested immediate funding for the 42nd International Handmade Carpets Exhibition to be held in October. These funds are essential to facilitate hospitality packages for international buyers and enhance export promotion activities to ensure foreign participation.

Additionally, the association advocated for a ban on the export of raw wool to protect the local supply chain. They proposed amending the government subsidy ratio for international trade exhibitions from 50/50 to 80/20 to better support the participation of small and medium enterprises in global trade fairs.

In response, Minister Jam Kamal Khan expressed the government’s commitment to transparent and investor-friendly policies to strengthen Pakistan’s export sector. He promised to consult with relevant stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions to the industry’s challenges.

Khan highlighted the importance of increasing product value addition, improving product branding, and advancing Pakistan’s foothold in global value chains, which are part of the country’s long-term export strategy. He encouraged the handmade carpet sector to explore new markets, promote innovation, and leverage Pakistan’s renowned cultural heritage in handmade carpets.

The discussions also covered potential improvements in trade links and logistics infrastructure for easier access to international markets. The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to cooperating with the private sector to remove trade barriers and provide an enabling environment for sustainable export growth.

The meeting concluded with a formal invitation from the PCMEA to Jam Kamal Khan to attend the opening ceremony of the 42nd International Handmade Carpets Exhibition, which he graciously accepted.