Pakistan finance minister reaffirms support for textile sector amid export challenges

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, together with Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, met on Wednesday with a delegation from the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) to discuss the challenges facing the country’s textile industry and outline government support measures.

The ministers emphasized the textile sector’s critical role in Pakistan’s economy, noting its contributions to exports, employment, and industrial activity. They reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining a fair, predictable policy environment and ensuring that structural reforms are implemented through consultation and institutional mechanisms.

Senator Aurangzeb acknowledged the sector’s concerns, highlighting the government’s ongoing review of issues affecting the cost of doing business for export-oriented industries. Energy affordability and reliability, he said, remain top priorities, with options being examined in coordination with relevant ministries to enhance competitiveness while maintaining fiscal sustainability.

The ministers also discussed operational and supply-side constraints and assured the delegation that coordination with regulatory authorities would continue to facilitate smooth industrial operations. They stressed the importance of constructive engagement with industry, particularly amid evolving domestic and international economic conditions.

During the meeting, the APTMA delegation briefed the ministers on rising input costs, regulatory and taxation pressures, and shifting global market dynamics affecting competitiveness. The industry representatives urged the government to provide a supportive and stable framework to sustain export growth and employment.

The delegation, led by APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad and comprising senior officials including Vice Chairmen, former chairmen, energy advisors, and economists, emphasized the need for consistent policies, timely resolution of operational issues, and continued dialogue to enable strategic planning and investment.

The meeting was also attended by the Secretary of the Power Division and senior officials from the Finance and Revenue Division.