Pakistan’s historic hand-knotted carpet sector is facing a severe crisis, with industry leaders warning that disruptions in the supply of essential materials are jeopardising their ability to fulfil overseas orders, risking a significant loss of international market share.
The grave concerns were raised by a delegation from the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) during a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan today. The association’s representatives, headed by Patron-in-Chief Mr. Abdul Latif Malik and Senior Vice Chairman Mr. Usman Ashraf, appealed for immediate government action to resolve the operational bottlenecks.
In response, Minister Jam Kamal Khan assured the delegation of the government’s decisive assistance, stating that addressing supply constraints is a key priority. He acknowledged the heritage industry’s vital role in employment generation, the economic empowerment of women, and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship, promising proactive support for the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that form the sector”s backbone.
The Minister also advocated for a more structured, long-term approach to sectoral planning. He proposed the establishment of formal secretariats operating under sectoral councils, which would be given clearly defined mandates and time-bound objectives to ensure accountability and alignment with Pakistan”s wider economic development goals.
Concluding the meeting, Jam Kamal Khan underscored the administration”s commitment to strengthening the nation’s value-added manufacturing base. He reiterated that the PCMEA’s concerns would be given prompt consideration as part of the government”s broader resolve to foster a diversified, competitive, and sustainable export economy.