The Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) has appealed to government agencies for immediate financial support, demanding funds for a major international exhibition.
The appeal specifically asks the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Export Development Fund (EDF) to provide financial support for organizing Pakistan Carpet Expo 2026 in Lahore. Along with this, the association also demanded the immediate restoration of the 80/20 subsidy scheme, which is designed to facilitate exporters to participate in international trade fairs abroad.
These demands were formalised during a meeting at the association”s office, chaired by Chairman Mian Ateeq-ur-Rehman and Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmad. The session included prominent industry figures such as Carpet Training Institute Chairperson Ijaz-ur-Rehman, senior member Usman Ashraf, Major (R) Akhtar Nazir, and Saeed Khan.
Participants held detailed discussions on a range of challenges impacting the sector. These included the adverse effects of the tense regional situation on exports, the approval of a cess tax by a Government of Punjab standing committee, and disruptions in the supply of partially processed raw materials.
Association leaders confirmed that planning for the 2026 expo is already underway, with the objective of promoting Pakistan’s hand-made carpets in the global market. They described the exhibition as an effective platform to introduce the high-quality products to foreign buyers, importers, and international traders to help boost the country’s exports.
Mian Ateeq-ur-Rehman and Riaz Ahmad emphasised that the timely release of funds is crucial for effective preparations. They noted that government patronage could play a key role in restoring international confidence in Pakistani carpets and securing new export orders for an industry facing numerous challenges.
The association stressed that reviving the 80/20 subsidy facility is indispensable. Its restoration, they argued, would enable carpet exporters to once again participate in overseas trade fairs and expand their access to global markets.