ISLAMABAD, May 7: Pakistan’s upstream textile sector, particularly cotton and fiber segments, continued to face export pressure during July–March FY26, according to the latest export analysis report released by the Pakistan Textile Council and reviewed by Wealth Pakistan.
The report showed that cotton exports declined to $1.86 billion during the nine-month period, compared to $1.98 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal year, reflecting ongoing weakness in one of Pakistan’s key textile export segments.
Exports across several fiber-related categories also recorded declines during the period. Man-made staple fiber exports fell to $258.4 million from $278.6 million, while exports of man-made filaments dropped to $40.7 million from $54 million.
The report further noted a decline in exports of knitted and crocheted fabrics, which decreased to $25.2 million compared to $34.5 million in the corresponding period last year.
Traditional textile segments continue to weaken
Other upstream textile categories, including vegetable textile fibers and related products, also posted lower export figures during July–March FY26.
According to the broader trend analysis included in the report, traditional textile exports have steadily declined in recent years. Total exports in these categories fell from $3.32 billion in 2021-22 to $2.28 billion in FY26.
The data highlighted continued challenges for upstream textile sectors, which form the foundation of Pakistan’s textile value chain.
Value-added sectors show relative resilience
The report indicated that while upstream textile segments remained under pressure, downstream value-added sectors showed comparatively better performance during the period.
Pakistan’s textile industry remains one of the country’s largest export-oriented sectors and a major contributor to employment and foreign exchange earnings.
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