PCMEA, Commerce Minister discuss carpet industry issues

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Jul, 2026) Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan has said that government is taking effective steps under long-term export strategy, and also continue to collaborate with the private sector to create an enabling environment for sustainable, export-led economic growth.

He stated this in a meeting with a high-level delegation of Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA), the Association Secretary Muhammad Riaz told media here Sunday. The delegation included PCMEA Patron-in-Chief Abdul Latif Malik, Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed and Senior Member Usman Ashraf, while Director General (Textiles) Mudassar Raza Siddiqui was also present.

The delegation apprised the Federal Minister of the obstacles in regional trade, difficulties in the global supply chain and challenges faced by the handloom carpet industry.

PCMEA leadership demanded immediate release of funds for the 42nd World Handloom Carpet Exhibition scheduled for October this year, saying that it is imperative to offer hospitality packages to foreign buyers and promote exports without delay. They also demanded imposing a ban on the export of raw wool to maintain supply chain of handloom carpet industry and to increase the current subsidy ratio from 50/50 to 80/20 to encourage maximum participation of small and medium enterprises in international exhibitions. On this occasion, Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, while emphasizing measures to improve the access of Pakistani carpets to global markets and export competitiveness, said that the government is committed to promoting exports through transparent, rules-based and investor-friendly policies.

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He said that the Ministry of Commerce will develop workable solutions after consulting relevant institutions and on the suggestions of stakeholders.

Jam Kamal Khan said that focus of Pakistan’s long-term export strategy is to increase value addition, strengthen export-oriented manufacturing, promote product branding and expand Pakistan’s presence in the global value chain.

He advised the representatives of the handmade carpet industry to diversify their export markets, take full advantage of product innovation and the globally recognized quality of Pakistan’s handicrafts.

Opportunities to make trade linkages and logistics facilities more efficient for better access to international markets were also discussed during the meeting.

Jam Kamal Khan said that the government will continue to work closely with the private sector to remove real barriers to trade and create a conducive environment for sustainable, export-led economic growth.

The PCMEA delegation also invited Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan to inaugurate the 42nd World Exhibition of Hand-Knotted Carpets, which he accepted.