First ever textile policy, which would be announced shortly, will focus on enhancing domestic capabilities for efficient use of resources through skills development, technology up-gradation and provision of infrastructure facilities. Federal Minister for Commerce, Makhdoom Amin Fahim, during his trade policy speech said that the government of Pakistan recognises the importance of the textile and clothing sectors.
To provide a foundation for sustainable growth, various initiatives are being planned through a separate and first ever Textile Policy, to be announced shortly. The textile policy takes a holistic approach and will contain short- and long-term measures to support the textiles and clothing manufacturers overcome the current problems created by the global down turn and equip them with necessary ingredients to meet the growing competitiveness and challenges of the future.
The strategic trade policy framework would leverage the Textile Policy through its diverse measures and policies directly and indirectly. The Ministry of Commerce would lend its support to the Ministry of Textiles towards an efficient implementation of Textile Policy. In this regards, the measures to promote new investment and modernisation of machinery; diversification of exports mix; to encourage the establishment of domestic and international brand; Rationalization of tariff on the principle of cascading to provide the exporting industry with an environment which supports manufacturing rather than trading would be taken. Initiatives for greater market access, developing and enlarging acceptability of Pakistani textiles and clothing in niche markets and diversification of exports to new destinations will also remain a key focus. sajid chaudhry
