Unlocking global potential

LAHORE: The slow growth in Pakistan’s textile exports is primarily due to limited penetration in global markets. To expand and diversify its textile and clothing export base, Pakistan should explore alternative destinations beyond its traditional markets.

In regional comparison, Vietnam’s textile exports to Russia surged from $0.28 billion in the first nine months of 2023 to $0.61 billion in 2024 -- a 117 per cent increase. Bangladesh, despite having over 80 per cent of its apparel exports concentrated in basic items for Western markets, has diversified 20 per cent of its exports outside the US and European Union. India is actively expanding its textile exports through initiatives like the Kasturi Cotton Initiative, targeting markets in Australia, Japan, Africa and South America, with double-digit growth in these regions.

African countries represent untapped markets for our textiles, driven by a growing middle class, urbanisation, and changing consumer preferences. Key target countries include South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania. Products in demand there include affordable cotton garments, denim and sacks.

South America offers significant opportunities for cotton-based products and RMG. Potential markets include Brazil, Argentina and Chile. These countries have a large population with increasing textile demand -- summer apparel and household textiles such as bed linens and towels.

Proximity to Pakistan reduces logistical costs, and growing economies like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan have a demand for high-quality garments and home textiles, including winter clothing and cotton-based products.

Eastern European markets are cost-conscious yet import large quantities of textiles and garments. Target countries include Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic and Romania where we can tap into budget-friendly markets for casual wear and affordable fashion.

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, close to Pakistan, are significant importers due to high per capita income. Demand is strong for luxury and modest fashion, including abayas and hijabs, and high-end home textiles, especially in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia offer a growing market for Muslim fashion and textiles, while Vietnam has a demand for industrial textiles and apparel. Markets in Australia and New Zealand prioritise organic and sustainable textiles. Australia favours natural fibrr textiles, while New Zealand demands high-quality cotton and wool blends, including organic cotton apparel and luxury bedding.

Russia’s cold climate creates a market for winter apparel and household textiles. Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea require high-quality and niche textile products. The country should tailor marketing strategies to suit regional preferences and cultures; explore preferential trade agreements to reduce tariffs; focus on eco-friendly and organic textile production to meet global trends; provide financial support to SMEs for exploring new markets; and promote participation in international expos like ‘Texworld’ and ‘Heimtextil’. By diversifying into these emerging markets and focusing on quality and innovation, Pakistan can strengthen its position as a competitive exporter in the global textile industry.