ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Textile Council (PTC) has raised serious concern over the sharp decline in exports during August 2025. The Council urged the government to take immediate steps to protect the country’s position in the global market.
According to PTC’s monthly report, Pakistan’s total exports stood at $5.1 billion in July–August 2025, showing only 0.65% growth compared to last year. However, exports in August dropped by 12.5% year-on-year and 10% month-on-month. The Council said the fall highlights growing instability in external trade.
Textile and apparel exports, which form nearly 63% of Pakistan’s exports, were valued at $3.21 billion in July–August 2025. This reflected a 10% growth compared to last year. But in August 2025, the sector recorded a steep decline, with exports falling to $1.53 billion, down 7% year-on-year and 9% month-on-month.
Traditional textiles, including cotton and knitted fabrics, showed persistent decline. Cotton exports fell by 3.5%, while knitted fabrics dropped by 32.7%. Even value-added textiles, usually more resilient, declined in August, with knitwear, non-knit apparel, and made-ups falling by 13% month-on-month.
The EU remained Pakistan’s largest destination, with exports worth $1.3 billion. Exports to the United States, however, have stagnated at $878 million over the past five years, reflecting lost competitiveness in the global market.
The PTC report stressed that without urgent reforms, the export trajectory will remain unsustainable. Key recommendations included regionally competitive energy pricing, timely tax refunds, wage policy alignment, financing support, and a legally backed five-year export strategy.
Analysts warn that Pakistan risks losing its global market share if immediate steps are not taken. The Council emphasized that predictable policies and structural reforms are vital to safeguard jobs and sustain foreign exchange inflows.
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