Pakistan’s value-added textile sector has secured a landmark international achievement with the election of Ijaz A. Khokhar as Vice President of the International Apparel Federation (IAF), making him the first Pakistani to hold the senior leadership position in the organization’s history.

The appointment gives Pakistan’s apparel industry greater representation within the world’s leading federation for garment manufacturers and is expected to strengthen the country’s voice in global discussions on trade, supply chains and industry development.

IAF General Assembly Approves Appointment

IAF President Stefano Festa Marzotto announced Khokhar’s nomination, citing his longstanding association with the federation and contributions to the global apparel industry.

The nomination was unanimously approved by the IAF General Assembly. Marzotto acknowledged Khokhar’s efforts in supporting the development of the international apparel sector and promoting collaboration among member organizations.

Industry Welcomes Pakistan’s Representation

The Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA), textile associations, chambers of commerce and business leaders welcomed the appointment.

Industry representatives said Khokhar’s election is expected to enhance Pakistan’s role in international apparel policy discussions while creating opportunities for greater trade, investment, market access and collaboration with global partners.

Long Career in Apparel Industry Leadership

Founded in 1972, the International Apparel Federation is the global organization representing apparel manufacturers, national industry associations and related businesses across more than 40 countries.

Khokhar has previously served as an IAF Executive Board Member and Regional President, where he advocated stronger cooperation among apparel-producing countries and greater representation for developing economies.

He also heads Ashraf Industries (Pvt.) Ltd. in Sialkot, a manufacturer and exporter of martial arts uniforms established in 1969.

Recognized for Contributions to Pakistan’s Exports

Throughout his career, Khokhar has served multiple terms as Chairman of PRGMEA and currently serves as the association’s Chief Coordinator. He is also a founding Executive Board Member of the Asian Apparel Federation (AAF), a lifetime member of FPCCI and the SAARC Chamber, and a Trustee of the Sialkot Dry Port Trust.

In recognition of his services to Pakistan’s economy and export sector, he received the Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2007 and was also awarded the Prime Minister’s Businessman of the Year Gold Medal.

Business leaders said his election reflects the growing international recognition of Pakistan’s value-added apparel industry and could help expand opportunities for the country’s exporters in global markets.

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