KARACHI: SITE Association of Industry (SAI) President Abdul Hadi has urged the government to address rising industrial production costs and ensure policy stability to safeguard Pakistan's export competitiveness. He warned that shifting global trade dynamics and increasing input costs are undermining the country's ability to maintain its edge in international markets.

According to SITE Association of Industry, the textile sector, contributing nearly 60 percent of Pakistan's national export earnings, is facing significant challenges due to high operating expenses and growing international competition. Abdul Hadi emphasized the necessity for investment in modern technology and higher-value-added manufacturing to sustain export growth.

He highlighted the textile industry's reliance on low value-added products like yarn and basic home textiles, suggesting a shift towards technical textiles and branded apparel to enhance global supply chain participation. Additionally, declining domestic cotton production has heightened dependency on imports, further increasing costs for manufacturers.

Hadi expressed concern over the potential erosion of preferential trade access, particularly with the European Union, due to evolving international trade agreements. He stressed the importance of exploring new markets and reducing business costs to maintain competitiveness. He called for collaboration between the government and industrial associations to remove structural bottlenecks and promote investment in modern production facilities.

A strategic focus on value addition, policy continuity, and market diversification is crucial to protect Pakistan's textile exports and bolster foreign exchange earnings, according to Abdul Hadi.