Spinners in Pakistan have requested the Government to eliminate duties imposed on man-made fibres as this would allow the local industry to function in a free market helping the country overcome the crisis created by shortfall of cotton this year.
Expressing concerns over this issue, Mr Akber Sheikh, Chairman of Media Committee, All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) told Fibre2fashion, “APTMA chairman recently met Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan and discussed ways to facilitate trade of textile related items between India and Pakistan including facilitation of trade by road using trucks throug Wagah border, of Cotton as well as Polyester Fiber. APTMA has asked Government of Pakistan to remove import of Polyester Fiber from India from Negative List and allow its trade under the SAFTA agreement.”
The continued imposition of duties on the import of polyester fibre and viscose is adversely affecting the local textile industry weakening its position in the global market. In fact, the use of man-made fibre in the world has increased to 60 percent while cotton usage is restricted to only 40 percent. Pakistan on the other had uses 80 percent of cotton and only 20 percent of man-made fibre.
Mian Shafqat Elahi, chairman of APTMA said that the Government imposed duties on products made from Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) to safeguard the interests of local manufacturers. However, he also agreed that restriction on importing polyester from India must be completely removed.
Further, it is proved that garments made from viscose blended with polyester are more durable and can be easily maintained since they require little ironing and are easier to wash. Besides, the fabric is just as comfortable as cotton.
However, due to duties imposed on import of man-made fibre and the consequent increase in the cost of production, manufacturers are reducing the ratio of polyester that ultimately deteriorates the quality of the garment.
It becomes virtually impossible for middle class consumers to buy garments having a high percentage of viscose. The Government must therefore withdraw import duties on man-made fibres to meet the demands of the domestic consumers.
