Government of Pakistan has recently imposed quantitative limit on import of short staple cotton from India through Wagah border. All Pakistan Textile Mills Association has (APTMA) showed discontent over this measure, which will only further the already critical situation of the textile industry.
In an exclusive interview with Fibre2fashion, Mr Akber Sheikh stated, “Potential importers do not agree with the concept of limit but they appreciate the efforts of the caretaker government, specially the commerce and textile industry minister, for taking the initiative. It is now upto the trade negotiators of both sides to expedite decisions regarding logistics. The private sector of both countries should participate in the process”.
APTMA also accused the Government, for aggravating the crisis in the textile industry, which was a direct consequence of lack of energy; cotton crop failure; restrictive duties on manmade fibre; increasing cost of energy and refusal of foreign buyers to trade with Pakistan.
When asked about the maximum limit of import of short staple cotton from India, Mr Sheikh said, “The present permission is for 500,000 bales, which will be reviewed if and when this quantity is filled up. Logistics for imports by road (especially by trucks) have to be agreed upon by Indian and Pakistani governments.”
Talking about the future of Pakistan textile industry, Mr Akber further asserted, “Pakistan textile industry is facing difficulties due to subsidies given by the governments of the competing countries, supply side constraints and infrastructure weaknesses. There is also need for developing regional synergies. However, in the long run textile industry of entire region should do very well.”
All in all, the Government needs to reconsider its decision before it is too late because failure to do so might worsen the situation for the industry causing irrevocable damages.
Fibre2fashion News Desk-India
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