Islamabad, Apr 16 (INP): COVID-19-hit textile industry in Pakistan is gradualy resuming it's export business, says a report published by Gwadar Pro App on Thursday. 

In recent days, both government and enterprises have implemented relative measures to awake stagnant textile industry.  

Up to now, domestic textile mills are gradually resuming productivity in accordance with the policies of government. Salim Ghori, the CEO of Elite Demin Mills, who has been working in denim Industry for 25 years said in a interview to Gwadar Pro that “Covid-19 was a black swan event for textile industry which no one could have predicted.” 

In Pakistan, textile industry accounts for 8% of GDP and over 46% of manufacturing industry. He introduced harsh situation faced by textile industry. “Such a situation has never arisen before.  

Since 19th March there was rarely production of denim fabric in textile sector. We have conservatively assumed that the production could start after 31st May at least.” Ghori said.  

Textile export plays an important role for Pakistan economy. “A huge chunk of textile is exported to western countries. due to Covid-19 it will have a huge impact on Pakistan's balance of payment and we will be under huge crisis if this situation extends for a few months,” said Ghori. 

“Our goods are exported to Western countries such US, UK, Italy, Spain, Germany etc. However, influenced by outbreak, there were plenty of export orders lost and the situation is very serious. There were many returns which led direct los s for our company.”  

Even though, textile industry is gradually resuming. The government has allowed several companies to resume production with strict guidelines which are in accordance with WHO.  

These companies resumed work from 6th April but a few of them were sealed for failing to comply with the standards set by the government. To the overall industry the government has notified yesterday that they can resume production after 2 weeks. 

Ghori add that: “We hope government can provide a definite date that we can resume production, or it’s hard to commit to future orders."  

INP/JAVED