Textile exporters in Pakistan are grappling with a host of challenges that are impeding maximum production, as reported by WealthPK. The high cost of doing business coupled with delayed refunds amounting to billions of rupees is casting a shadow over the textile sector, which serves as a linchpin of the national economy.

According to Ali, a prominent textile exporter, efforts to persuade authorities to alleviate the burden by reducing power and gas prices have been unsuccessful. The situation is dire, with production dwindling due to fund shortages faced by millers and the unresolved issue of stuck refunds.

Despite repeated promises from the government, tangible action remains elusive, laments Ali. He urges authorities to investigate the root causes of declining textile production and implement remedial measures promptly.

Khurram Mukhtar, Patron-in-Chief, Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA), adds, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive business plan to uplift the ailing industry. Neglecting the textile sector would jeopardise both economic growth and employment prospects, he adds.

Riaz Ahmed, another exporter, emphasises the ripple effect of reduced production on small and medium enterprises. Highlighting the disconnect between government priorities and the textile industry's pressing needs, he emphasises on need for introduction of business-friendly policies to stimulate growth and job creation.

Underscoring the pivotal role of the textile sector in foreign exchange earnings, Mukhtar laments its current state of stagnation and underperformance. He cites alarming statistics showing a decline in textile exports, further exacerbating the economic slowdown.

Pakistan exporters face dual challenges as they have to contend with mounting pressures without any support while competitors like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India benefit from government subsidies, Ahmed points out.