Pakistan’s textile sector, the backbone of the country’s export economy, is showing renewed signs of improvement, with exports rising 1.83 percent to 16.67 billion dollars over the first eleven months of the current fiscal year.
Steady Growth Across Key Segments
Knitwear exports reached 4.60 billion dollars, while ready-made garment exports totalled 3.97 billion dollars during the July to May period of FY2025-26. Cotton yarn exports were a standout performer, recording a 13.35 percent increase to reach 701.1 million dollars, signalling stronger demand for Pakistan’s raw textile inputs.
Recent Monthly Momentum
May 2026 alone brought in 1.657 billion dollars in textile exports, a 10.61 percent jump compared to April and 8.23 percent higher than the same month last year. This followed a softer patch earlier in the year, when cumulative exports through March had shown a slight year-on-year decline.
Government Support Through SIFC
Officials credit the Special Investment Facilitation Council with helping drive improvement across the textile sector and broader industrial activity. The council has been working to streamline investment processes and attract new capital into manufacturing, including Pakistan-China joint ventures aimed at boosting industrial output.
Why the Sector Still Matters So Much
Textiles account for roughly 60 percent of Pakistan’s total exports and remain one of the largest sources of employment in the country. While the sector has faced volatility over the past year due to global demand shifts and rising input costs, the recent monthly gains offer encouragement heading into the final stretch of the fiscal year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Pakistan’s textile exports grow this fiscal year?
Textile exports rose 1.83 percent to 16.67 billion dollars during the first eleven months of FY2025-26.
Which textile segment grew the fastest?
Cotton yarn exports recorded the strongest growth, rising 13.35 percent to 701.1 million dollars.
What role does the textile sector play in Pakistan’s economy?
Textiles account for around 60 percent of Pakistan’s total exports and are a major source of employment.
