The Sindh government is set to embark on a project to modernize the Karachi Garment City, with the aim of boosting exports. The plan includes the development of climate-friendly industrial units and the establishment of water recycling and treatment plants within the 300-acre city. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance Pakistan’s earning potential, create employment opportunities, and encourage skill development in the textile sector.
Karachi Garment City, established about 15 years ago, focuses on the production of value-added textile products. The upcoming modernization aims to make local products more competitive in the international textile market. The city currently serves as an exclusive industrial estate dedicated to sewing and stitching units, facilitating the production of specialized garments for export.
Despite being a significant contributor to revenues and exports, the city requires improvements to effectively compete with international counterparts. The modernization project is aligned with the government’s strategy to diversify and expand Pakistan’s export base, particularly in the garment sector.
The modernization efforts come as part of a broader approach to address challenges in Pakistan’s apparel exports, which have been relatively stagnant. Factors contributing to underperformance include higher production costs, lower productivity compared to peers, and limited diversification in garment exports destinations. The government’s holistic approach aims to position Pakistan as a more competitive player in the global market, with a focus on increasing exports and foreign exchange earnings.
