Closure of Sindh Highways Sparks Alarm for Textile Exporters

The Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PHMA) has voiced significant apprehension regarding the ongoing closure of key highways in Sindh province.

In a recent press statement, the PHMA highlighted the severe impact on the textile export sector, a crucial component of Pakistan’s economy. They urgently called for intervention as continuous disruptions across major Sindh highways leading to Karachi Port are causing substantial financial setbacks.

The association noted that thousands of containers carrying export goods have been held up for over a week, resulting in millions of dollars in losses for exporters already struggling with a volatile global economic climate.

Impact on Exports and Raw Material Supply

The PHMA North Zone expressed profound concern over the deepening crisis, emphasizing that the obstruction of export cargo poses a direct threat to the livelihoods of numerous individuals connected to the industry, not just a logistical challenge.

The paralysis of transport routes due to protests has also significantly hampered the timely arrival of vital imported raw materials to manufacturing facilities. This situation is intensifying the difficulties faced by the business sector. Reduced factory output, potential order cancellations, and dissatisfaction from global buyers due to delays are damaging Pakistan’s reputation as a dependable trading partner.

The business community, already under considerable economic strain, feels neglected due to the government’s delayed response in clearing these essential trade routes. Exporters, who contribute significantly to the national treasury through foreign exchange earnings, now face the alarming prospect of extensive order losses, which could have irreversible effects on the nation’s already vulnerable economy.

Call for Government Intervention

Given the severity of the circumstances, Abdul Hameed, Chairman of PHMA (North Zone), has earnestly appealed to the Prime Minister and relevant authorities to implement immediate and decisive actions to restore normalcy.

He emphasized that failing to resolve the crisis promptly not only puts the export sector at risk but also jeopardizes broader economic recovery efforts at a time when Pakistan can scarcely afford any setbacks. It is crucial for the government to acknowledge that uninterrupted logistics and trade operations are essential for economic stability and advancement.

The PHMA stressed that swiftly clearing the blocked highways and ensuring continuous access to Karachi Port are vital to protect businesses, safeguard jobs, and maintain the country’s crucial foreign exchange inflows.

The value-added textile industry is prepared to assist the government in any efforts to resolve this issue amicably but emphasizes that time is of the essence. Every day lost escalates the risk of production shutdowns, increased unemployment, and the erosion of global market share.

The business community is urging top-level officials to recognize the gravity of the disruption and prioritize its resolution before it triggers a widespread economic crisis. Pakistan’s export sector requires immediate assistance and proactive governance to overcome this unprecedented challenge and continue its contribution to national progress.