German Ambassador Calls for Innovation to Revive Pakistan's Apparel Exports
German Ambassador Ina Lepel has reaffirmed Germany's steadfast commitment to bolstering Pakistan's apparel industry, emphasizing the critical need to strengthen bilateral collaboration to unlock the sector's untapped export potential. Speaking at an interactive session with representatives of Pakistan's value-added apparel export industry, currently valued at approximately $10 billion, Ambassador Lepel pointed out that apparel exports have remained largely stagnant for over a decade, with little progress in export figures.
Decade-Long Stagnation Highlights Urgent Need for Change
The ambassador observed that the export volume today is nearly identical to when she last visited Pakistan ten years ago, underscoring the pressing necessity for Pakistan to diversify its export portfolio. She stressed that moving up the value chain and embracing innovation are essential steps to enhance competitiveness in global markets. This stagnation, she noted, signals a clear call to action for the industry to adapt and evolve in response to international demands.
Focus on Bilateral Trade and Industry Challenges
The session concentrated on expanding bilateral trade, fostering private-sector linkages, boosting women's employment, and addressing key challenges faced by the apparel industry. Senior industry leaders, including PRGMEA North Zone Chairman M Rizwan Zubair, PHMA North Zone Chairman Abdul Hameed, and PRGMEA former chairman Ijaz Khokhar, attended the meeting. Participants highlighted the immense potential of Pakistan's apparel sector, which plays a vital role in economic growth, employment generation—particularly for women—and export diversification.
Industry's Role in Economic Development
With more than 500 member firms and strong participation from small and medium enterprises, Pakistan's garment and hosiery industry remains a major contributor to value-added exports, aligned with international market demand. The discussion underscored the sector's significance as a driver of job creation and economic stability, with a focus on leveraging Germany's support to overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable growth.
Ambassador Lepel's remarks serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to revitalize Pakistan's apparel exports, urging stakeholders to prioritize innovation and strategic partnerships to break free from the decade-long stagnation and secure a more prosperous future in global trade.
