Gohar Ejaz Thinks Pakistan Can Achieve $50 Billion Textile Exports

Former commerce minister Gohar Ejaz has expressed optimism that Pakistan's textile industry could see its exports reach $50 billion, up from the current $19 billion, if the nation revitalizes cotton production and tackles the sector's policy issues. At a recent press conference in Lahore, Ejaz highlighted that the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has been advocating for higher cotton production for the past five years.

He criticized the increased cultivation of sugarcane, which he claimed uses more water than cotton. Ejaz emphasized that the revival of cotton cultivation is crucial for bolstering the textile industry and decreasing reliance on imported raw materials. Presently, Pakistani exporters rely on cotton imports from the United States and Brazil, generating around $19 billion in textile exports.

Additionally, Ejaz stressed that APTMA desires to be consulted on government decisions impacting the textile industry. He noted that Pakistan currently has a chance to enhance its global standing and reap the benefits of the increasing respect accorded to the country's leadership.