Lahore: The Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) has raised serious concerns about the escalating crisis within the handmade carpet industry, prompting an appeal to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for immediate intervention. The association highlighted that this sector, which significantly contributes to the country's foreign exchange, is experiencing a drastic decrease in exports due to rising production costs, a heavy tax burden, and administrative challenges.

In a statement, PCMEA leaders, including Chairman Mian Atiq-ur-Rehman and Patron-in-Chief Abdul Latif Malik, pointed to the unprecedented downturn affecting the industry. They noted that the handmade carpet sector is crucial to Pakistan's export economy but is currently struggling to compete with traditional rivals globally.

The association urged the government to implement a comprehensive policy supporting the cottage-based carpet industry across various regions. Such measures, they argued, would alleviate the financial strain on manufacturers and exporters.

PCMEA also suggested providing financial assistance to skilled workers and offering incentives to reduce production costs. These initiatives, they claimed, would safeguard millions of families' livelihoods and protect the national economy from further losses.

The call for government action underscores the urgent need for a coordinated response to address the challenges facing this vital industry.