Transport Strike is Crippling Pakistan’s Textile Exports: APTMA

The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has issued a warning that the ongoing transportation strike is severely impacting Pakistan's textile exports. APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad stated that the prolonged halt in freight movement is causing significant issues for the textile and apparel industry. Exports are facing delays in meeting international delivery times, while textile mills are experiencing shortages of raw materials and fuel due to road transport disruptions.

Arshad emphasized that the textile sector, already burdened by high energy costs, liquidity issues, and fierce global competition, cannot endure additional supply chain disruptions. The APTMA highlighted that textiles constitute over 60 percent of Pakistan's total exports, underscoring the sector's crucial role in foreign exchange earnings, industrial production, and employment generation.

They urged the federal government and all involved parties to engage in dialogue with transporters to resolve the dispute. Furthermore, the association called upon the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, port authorities, and shipping lines to expedite the clearance of export cargo until regular transport operations are restored. APTMA stressed that a prompt restoration of the supply chain is vital to protect exports, economic activities, and jobs.