LAHORE, Nov 26 (Wealth Pakistan) – Pakistan’s reliance on imported synthetic fiber and yarn is increasing as the textile sector responds to changing global trends.
Global buyers prefer modern fabrics
Exporter Muhammad Farooq told Wealth Pakistan that international buyers now prefer polyester, spandex and blended fabrics instead of pure cotton. He said Pakistan cannot yet produce these materials in sufficient quantities, so manufacturers must depend on imports.
Synthetic fiber is cheaper and more suitable for modern apparel. Because of this, exporters are gradually moving in that direction.
Rising imports raise cost and currency risks
Farooq warned that higher dependence on imported synthetic fiber could expose the sector to currency fluctuations. As a result, the trade deficit may worsen if export growth does not outpace import spending.
He also said local synthetic fiber producers may struggle to meet rising demand. According to him, the shift could create environmental challenges, as synthetic fiber contributes to microplastic pollution. He noted that the transition is understandable but requires careful planning.
Cotton still vital for Pakistan’s textile sector
Industrialist Ahmed Ali dismissed the impression that Pakistan is moving away from cotton. He said cotton remains the backbone of the textile industry and gives Pakistan an edge in producing fine-quality goods.
However, he acknowledged that synthetic fiber and yarn imports have increased due to demand. A shift is taking place because global buyers want performance fabrics such as sportswear and activewear.
Climate stress fuels the shift
Ali said Pakistan cannot rely only on cotton, especially when climate stress is affecting crop yields. He explained that synthetic blends offer consistency and match the expectations of global buyers who demand modern fabrics.
He added that Pakistan can enter higher-value segments such as activewear, athleisure and technical textiles. These products can earn more than traditional cotton items and also reduce dependence on unpredictable cotton crops.
Need for new machinery and worker training
Ali noted that many older cotton-based machines cannot process synthetic fabrics. Therefore, factories need modern technology to handle new materials. Workers also require training, as synthetic fiber reacts differently to heat, stitching and handling.
Cotton ginners face tough conditions
Cotton ginner Abdul Latif told Wealth Pakistan that farmers feel discouraged due to weak government policies. Because of this, textile mills are exploring alternatives.
He said ginning factories are struggling to survive amid the cotton shortage.
Latif supported the use of modern methods but cautioned that Pakistan must also improve cotton production. Relying heavily on imports, he said, can create serious issues for the textile sector and the wider economy, especially when the country is already dealing with high import bills.