PTC seeks policy intervention to deal with textile sector challenges

Pakistan Textile Council (PTC) has sought urgent policy intervention to support the country’s textile sector, which is facing mounting challenges amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PTC Chairman Fawad Anwar outlined key issues confronting the sector and proposed remedial measures to navigate the current difficult environment. According to the latest data, Pakistan’s total exports declined by USD1.9 billion during July–March FY2025-26, marking an 8 percent drop compared to the same period last year. In March 2026 alone, exports contracted by 14 percent, falling by USD360 million. Textile and apparel exports recorded a 7 percent decline during the month, while the overall trade deficit widened by 21 percent to USD27.7 billion over the nine-month period.