Prospects for the textile and clothing industry in Pakistan, 2021

Prospects for the textile and clothing industry in Pakistan, 2021

The textile and clothing industry in Pakistan constitutes the country’s most important industrial activity by far and fulfils a crucial economic role. It provides direct employment for around 15 mn people, representing about 40% of the country’s total industrial workforce. In addition, it provides support for over 10 mn farming families, reflecting Pakistan’s status as a major producer of raw cotton. Despite its importance to the Pakistani economy, the textile and clothing industry has been allowed to stagnate in recent years. Investment in the industry has fallen, and the industry has had to grapple with chronic power shortages and turmoil stemming from highly volatile political circumstances. Also, the quality of Pakistani cotton--its main raw material--has been lowered through bad practices. This report looks at the development of the textile and clothing industry in Pakistan, its size and structure, and its production and consumption of textiles and clothing. The report also features: a geographical, political and economic profile; a detailed look at Pakistan’s imports and exports of textiles and clothing; a review of the policies and investment incentives provided by the Pakistani government; an appraisal of Pakistan’s infrastructure and human resources; and an examination of the industry’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT).