Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, along with Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, met with a delegation of the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) at the Finance Division to discuss challenges facing the textile sector and reaffirm the Government's commitment to support the industry.
The Ministers emphasized that the textile industry is a cornerstone of Pakistan's economy due to its significant contribution to exports, employment, and industrial activity. They assured the delegation that the Government remains committed to maintaining a fair and predictable policy environment, promoting equity, transparency, and broad-based participation across the economy.
Senator Aurangzeb acknowledged the concerns raised by the delegation, noting that the Government is actively reviewing issues affecting the cost of doing business for export-oriented industries. Energy affordability and reliability were highlighted as key priorities, with relevant measures being examined in consultation with concerned ministries and stakeholders to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and fiscal sustainability.
The Ministers underlined that ongoing reforms in the energy sector are being pursued in a balanced manner to support industrial productivity while safeguarding the long-term interests of the national economy. Immediate operational challenges are being addressed on a priority basis, while broader policy matters will be taken forward through established budgetary and reform mechanisms.
Discussions also covered operational constraints and supply-side challenges in certain industrial areas, with the Ministers assuring continued coordination with relevant authorities to ensure smooth industrial operations. The importance of constructive engagement between the Government and industry was stressed, particularly amid evolving domestic and global economic conditions.
The APTMA delegation briefed the Ministers on the sector's prevailing situation, highlighting pressures on exporters due to rising input costs and changing international market dynamics. They emphasized the need for a supportive and stable operating framework to sustain export growth and employment.
The delegation also highlighted challenges related to energy costs, regulatory compliance, and taxation, noting that cumulative cost pressures affect competitiveness in export markets. They called for policy consistency, timely resolution of operational issues, and continued dialogue with the Government to enable the industry to plan and invest with confidence.
The APTMA delegation included Mr. Kamran Arshad, Chairman; Mr. Asad Shafi, Chairman North Zone; Mr. Muhammad Jamil Qassim, Senior Vice Chairman; Mr. Shahzad Ahmed Sheikh, Vice Chairman; Mr. Siddique Javed Bhatti, Vice Chairman; Mr. Aamir Fayyaz Sheikh, Former Chairman; Mr. Rahim Nasir, Former Chairman; Mr. Khurram Inam, Senior Member; Mr. Raza Baqir, Secretary General; Mr. Asim Riaz, Energy Advisor; and Mr. Syed Absar Ali, Senior Economist. The meeting was also attended by the Secretary Power Division and senior officials of the Finance and Revenue Division.