The textile, garments, and apparel manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s
economy, contributing close to 10% of the nation’s GDP. However, this vital industry faces
significant challenges, particularly in the realm of environmental sustainability. As the
global market demands more eco-friendly practices, the textile sector must innovate to
compete on the international stage.
To address these challenges, the Pakistani textile industry is increasingly implementing
environmental sustainability measures. Key focus areas include the adoption of renewable
energy sources, advanced water management solutions, and recycling methodologies.
These initiatives are essential for enhancing the industry’s global competitiveness and
ensuring long-term viability. Despite these efforts, a common industry standard for
sustainability practices is still needed.
Recognizing this critical need, Swedish technology and innovation are poised to play a
transformative role in the Pakistani textile sector. By adopting Swedish innovations,
Pakistani manufacturers can achieve greater efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and
ensure long-term economic success.
In June, Business Sweden and the Swedish Embassy in Pakistan, together with key actors
in the textile industry, are launching a Sustainable Textiles Platform.
The objective of the launch is to delve into how Swedish technology and innovations can
contribute to enhancing sustainability and productivity in the Pakistani textile sector,
focusing on circularity, water treatment, and renewable energy. It has also highlighted the
role of Swedish textile buyers such as IKEA and H&M, as well as technology providers
such as Atlas Copco through panel discussions.
Key areas of focus:
- Circularity: Embracing circular economy principles to minimize waste and promote
the continual use of resources. - Water Treatment: Implementing state-of-the-art water management solutions to
ensure efficient use and recycling of water, addressing one of the most pressing
environmental concerns in textile manufacturing. - Renewable Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources to reduce carbon
footprints and promote sustainable energy consumption within the industry.
The event is the formal launch of the Sustainable Textile Platform, that brought together
sourcing companies, producers, public sector decision makers and academia to be a force
for good in the textile sector. By leveraging Swedish technology and innovation, the
Pakistani textile industry can not only enhance its sustainability but also improve
productivity and product quality, making it more competitive on the global stage.
H.E. Mr. Dag Juhlin-Dannfelt, Director General for Global Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
of Sweden says “The people of Pakistan are among those who understand the impact of
climate change the most. The Sustainable Textile Platform not only aims to mitigate the
climate crisis but hopefully it will inspire more companies to follow suit. The Swedish
business community is eager to provide expertise while collaborating with Pakistani
partners who understand the possibilities for improvements on the ground.”
H.E. Mr. Henrik Persson, Ambassador of Sweden says, “The partnership between Swedish
and Pakistani companies is already very strong in the textile sector. The sustainable
textiles concept holds great potential for the Pakistani textile industry to maintain and
further strengthen its competitiveness in the global market. Swedish partners are ready to
support this endeavor.”
Mr. Emil Akander, Vice President, Business Sweden says, “Sweden’s new strategy of
trade, investment and global competitiveness and its recent Asia focus, emphasizes efforts
on markets like Pakistan to foster economic, social, and environmental development,
acting as a catalyst for growth. Establishing a platform for sustainable practices and
increased industrialisation is a crucial step towards a more competitive Pakistani textile
sector. Collaboration with Swedish companies like IKEA, H&M, and Atlas Copco has the
potential to drive this t
