Swiss companies have been close partners of Pakistan’s textile companies for more than six decades. Trade between the two countries has been increasing steadily. Switzerland is known worldwide for its precision watches, cheeses and financial services. However, Swiss competence is not limited to these sectors. Equally strong are Swiss companies in textile technology, testing equipments, chemicals and service sectors.

In the weaving sector Staubli is the world leader in jacquard technology and Jakob Mueller is the undisputed leader in narrow fabric technology. Pakistan is the ninth most important market for Swiss textile machinery manufacturers. While Swiss textile machinery exports to the key markets of Turkey and China have seen a sharp decline, Swiss exports to Pakistan have been increasing over the last three years.

Many Swiss companies are doing business in Pakistan independently and as joint ventures. Switzerland has also been contributing towards the development of Pakistan through its development programs. Exports of major textile items from Pakistan to Switzerland are cotton yarn, cotton fabrics, readymade garments, hosiery, towels, made-up textiles and synthetic textiles. Swiss companies import home textiles and clothing (other than knitwear) from Pakistan, selling them in Switzerland and Europe under their own brand names and designs.