Closure of Sindh Highways Sparks Concern for Textile Exports

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

In a recent statement, the PHMA highlighted the critical situation facing the textile export sector, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy. They are appealing for immediate intervention as continuous disruptions on major Sindh highways leading to Karachi Port are causing significant financial setbacks.

Reports indicate that thousands of export-laden containers have been stranded for over ten days. This has resulted in losses amounting to millions of dollars for exporters already struggling with global economic uncertainties.

The northern zone of PHMA has voiced substantial worries regarding the escalating crisis. They emphasized that the obstruction of export cargo presents not just a logistical issue but a profound threat to the livelihoods of countless individuals associated with the textile industry.

The disruption of transport routes due to protests has also critically affected the prompt delivery of imported raw materials to manufacturing facilities. This situation is compounding the challenges faced by the business community. Consequently, factory operations are slowing, order cancellations are looming, and international buyers are showing discontent over delays, thus harming Pakistan’s reputation as a dependable trading partner.

The business sector, already under considerable economic duress, feels neglected as the government has yet to implement effective solutions to clear these vital trade routes. Exporters, significant contributors to the national treasury through foreign exchange, now face the stark reality of potential large-scale order losses, which could severely impact the nation’s fragile economic condition.

Given the seriousness of the circumstances, Abdul Hameed, Chairman of PHMA (North Zone), has urgently requested the Prime Minister, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and the Chief Ministers of Sindh and Punjab to undertake swift and decisive actions to restore order.

He emphasized that any further delay in resolving this matter will not only jeopardize the export sector but will also endanger the broader economic recovery efforts at a crucial time for Pakistan. It is essential for the government to acknowledge that seamless logistics and trade operations form the foundation of economic stability and growth.

PHMA has underscored that the prompt clearance of blocked highways and unobstructed access to Karachi Port are imperative to protect thousands of businesses, preserve millions of jobs, and safeguard the country’s crucial foreign exchange inflows.

The value-added textile industry remains committed to supporting governmental initiatives aimed at finding an amicable resolution. However, they stress the urgency of the situation, noting that each passing day increases the risk of production shutdowns, rising unemployment, and diminished global market share.

The business community is urging top authorities to recognize the magnitude of the disruption and prioritize its resolution before it precipitates a widespread economic catastrophe. Pakistan’s export sector requires immediate assistance and proactive governance to navigate this unprecedented challenge and continue its contribution to national progress.