The government has affirmed its commitment to elevating Pakistan’s textile exports to $50 billion by 2030, emphasizing the critical role of academia-industry partnerships in achieving this ambitious target.
The assurance came from Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, during a visit to the National Textile University (NTU) on Friday.
During his visit, the Coordinator received a comprehensive briefing on the university”s research and innovation activities. Discussions focused on NTU”s ongoing projects in sustainable textiles, technical textiles, smart materials, and the development of eco-friendly processing technologies to meet modern industry demands.
Established in 1954, NTU operates as Pakistan”s premier federal institution for textile education. It supports the industry through advanced facilities like the Central Hi-Tech Laboratory and the National Textile Research Centre, which facilitate collaborations aimed at enhancing the country”s export capabilities.
The briefing highlighted the institution”s strong industrial linkages, including technology transfer programs with Faisalabad-based mills and skill development initiatives that train numerous professionals annually. Officials also detailed how the university”s research aligns with national export objectives, particularly in ensuring compliance with international sustainability standards such as the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan acknowledged NTU”s significant contributions to the textile sector, which currently accounts for over 60% of Pakistan’s total exports with an annual value exceeding $15 billion. He pledged continued support from the Ministry of Commerce to strengthen collaborations between academic institutions and industrial partners to drive innovation.
The high-profile visit was also attended by Mr. Naveed Gulzar, Chairman of the NTU Board of Governors, along with board members Mian Muhammad Latif and Engr. Dean Zulfiqar, in addition to university deans, department heads, and senior faculty members.