The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has warned that the ongoing nationwide transporters’ strike is disrupting textile exports, delaying industrial supplies and putting Pakistan’s largest export sector under growing pressure.

In a statement, APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad said the continued suspension of freight movement has disrupted the transportation of cotton, yarn, fabric, dyes, chemicals, machinery, spare parts and export consignments, affecting production as well as international shipments.

He said exporters are struggling to meet delivery deadlines, while many mills are facing shortages of raw materials and fuel because road transport has remained largely suspended.

Arshad cautioned that prolonged shipment delays could undermine Pakistan’s credibility in global markets, leading to cancelled export orders, financial losses and lasting damage to business relationships with overseas buyers.

He added that the textile industry is already coping with high energy costs, limited access to finance and intense international competition, leaving little room to absorb further supply chain disruptions.

APTMA noted that the textile sector contributes more than 60 percent of Pakistan’s total exports, making uninterrupted logistics critical for export earnings, industrial output and employment.

The association urged the federal government to engage with transporters and resolve the dispute through dialogue. It also called on the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, port authorities and shipping companies to facilitate the movement and clearance of export cargo until normal freight operations are restored.

APTMA stressed that restoring the country’s logistics network without delay is essential to protect exports, sustain industrial production and safeguard Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings.