Pakistan’s textile industry has long served as a backbone of the national economy. It contributes heavily to the country’s GDP, drives export earnings and provides employment to millions of workers.

Despite its historic strength, the sector is now under serious strain. Hundreds of mills have closed in recent years, leaving families uncertain about their livelihoods and exposing deep structural challenges within the industry.

Much of the recent debate centres on the Export Facilitation Scheme, yet the problems extend far beyond a single policy. The difference between zero-rated imported inputs and taxed local inputs has created difficulties for manufacturers, but the broader concern is the rising cost of doing business. High electricity prices in particular have made it extremely challenging for local producers to remain competitive. Even with these pressures, the industry must not lose sight of the importance of innovation and long term planning.

Pakistan’s textile sector has historically been one of its strongest pillars. From small mills in the early years after independence to the large corporations of the 1980s and 1990s, the industry helped expand exports and drive national development. Today, however, outdated machinery, growing input costs and strong competition from regional players such as Bangladesh and Vietnam are slowing down progress.

APTMA (All Pakistan Textile Mills Association) can play a central role in addressing these concerns. While advocacy........

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