Pakistan’s textile value-added products are unable to fetch a high value due to poor packaging. The industry says a product and packaging centre will ensure better packaging. Since fabrics are in limited supply, the garment sector in Pakistan has a restricted product line for the export market. Foreign buyers demand garments made of technical fabrics, which are not available or produced by Pakistani weavers.

The industry says it can’t compete in the global market without support or a proper plan. Exporters say formulation of sector-wise policies can control the decline and stabilise exports. Refunds are another problem. Sales tax refunds and customs rebates are pending. Exporters complain of cash liquidity and say this is the main cause for the continuous drop in exports and the reason the export industry is unable to tap its potential in accordance with capacity.

Garment manufacturers and exporters have called for an aggressive marketing plan to enhance exports and get the maximum benefit of GSP Plus status. Pakistan’s textile industry has witnessed dwindling investments over the last decade. Currently, around 35 per cent of the textile industry’s production capacity is impaired.

Prospective investors are reluctant to make new investment decisions due to the high cost of doing business. As a result, the industry has lost its technological advantage over its competitors.