MULTAN - Dera Ghazi Khan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DGKCCI) President Khawaja Mohammad Anis said on Wednesday that textile sector is expected to consume 15 million bales of cotton and the country may have to import one million bales to meet the requirement.
While talking to APP, he expressed his opinion that Pakistan would have to import one million bales keeping in view the figures related to cotton production expectations this season.
He explained that textile sector is expected to consume 15.5 million bales of lint which can be reduced to 15 million bales given the energy problem and the subsequent closure of textile units.
However, Khawaja Anis said the country would have a stock of 13 million cotton bales this year after the purchase of around one million bales by the exporters. “The deficit of two million bales would have to be met by importing one million bales and the rest by the domestic ginning units as some of them are still in operation though the arrival of phutti has slowed down”, he explained.
NNI adds from Karachi: Exporters have shown their concern over the ongoing strike of customs agents due to which the shipments of consignments is delaying.
The central and South Zone chairmen of Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA), Shehzad Salim and Atiq Kochra, have shown serious concern over the ongoing custom agents strike.
He stressed the relevant authorities to resolve this issue at the earliest because garment exportersΆ air-shipments are getting delayed and international buyers are losing their patience with Pakistani suppliers.
“Our buyers are now constantly complaining and are asking why there is some problem or the other in dealing with Pakistan”, said Shehzad added that foreign buyers state that it is much easier working with other countries such as Bangladesh and Vietnam.
“If our situation does not improve, we fear that in near future we will no other option but to relocate our business”, Shehzad warned.
The exporters are already facing multiple issues and donΆt need new issues popping up every day; itΆs simply too much to bear, he added.
