Power loom sector reels under imports, rising costs

Faisalabad, known as Pakistan's Manchester due to its textile and allied industries, is grappling with the closing of 40% of its power loom units, resulting in the loss of approximately 100,000 jobs. The decline in the industry is attributed to the influx of cheaper Chinese yarn, grey cloth, and finished textile products. Industry representatives have called for stronger customs checks to curb "under-invoicing" and unfair competition from Chinese imports.

Faisalabad's Sizing Mills Association President Shakil Ansari highlighted the negative impact of high utility bills, taxes, and disrupted exports to Afghanistan and Central Asian states on the local power loom operators. The Council of Loom Owners Association has written to the Commerce Minister to strengthen import valuation controls through verification of export declarations to prevent under-invoicing and protect domestic manufacturers.