Italy Throws Support Behind Pakistan Textile Sector

KARACHI: Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, Marilina Armellin, has reiterated Italy’s commitment to strengthening the Pakistan textile sector, calling it a key driver of the nation’s economic and export performance.

Ambassador Armellin emphasized that Italy has been a consistent partner in Pakistan’s textile journey, providing cutting-edge machinery and technological solutions across the industry’s value chain, from spinning processes to high-end garment production.

In an interview with a local outlet, Armellin highlighted the need for deeper bilateral trade ties.
“Italy is eager to enhance this vital partnership by facilitating access to state-of-the-art textile technology and machinery to support Pakistan’s economic advancement,” she noted.

However, she urged Pakistani policymakers to lower import duties on textile machinery, making advanced equipment more affordable. Reducing these barriers, she said, would modernize the Pakistan textile sector and significantly boost its contribution to the country’s GDP, as it remains Pakistan’s largest manufacturing and export-earning industry.

IGATEX Pakistan 2025: A Milestone for Italy-Pakistan Cooperation

Reflecting on the recent IGATEX Pakistan 2025 event at the Karachi Expo Centre, the ambassador called it a landmark moment for Italy-Pakistan industrial cooperation. For the first time, two Italian pavilions were showcased, featuring top-tier textile machinery innovations.

“IGATEX is not only crucial for Pakistan but holds importance for the entire region,” she said.

She further added that Italian businesses participating in IGATEX recognize the immense potential of the Pakistan textile sector and are keen to expand collaborations. The Italian government fully supports and encourages their initiatives.

The exhibition featured over 450 exhibitors from 30 countries, with Italy’s contingent including 11 companies presenting over 50 prestigious brands across two pavilions, underlining Italy’s growing interest in Pakistan’s textile and garment industry.

Strengthening Bilateral Trade Beyond Textiles

Ambassador Armellin’s comments reflected Italy’s strategic focus on nurturing trade and industrial ties with Pakistan, particularly in sectors offering mutual growth opportunities.

She further emphasized Italy’s broader aim to strengthen bilateral trade and investment, not just in textiles but across multiple sectors.

“Our two economic systems complement each other in many ways, and our mission is to capitalize on these synergies,” she stated.

According to the ambassador, current bilateral trade stands at €1.5 billion, establishing a solid foundation for further growth. “There’s considerable potential to expand and enhance our trade partnership,” she remarked.

Italy supplies a range of modern machinery and technologies to Pakistan, supporting industries such as textiles, leather, footwear, and agriculture.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s main exports to Italy include textile goods, leather products, and food commodities like rice, she explained.

In a push to deepen economic ties, Ambassador Armellin encouraged Pakistani entrepreneurs to participate in major Italian and European trade fairs, including Salone del Mobile, EICMA, Expo Riva Schuh, Linea Pelle, and Cosmoprof. Such platforms, she said, offer valuable opportunities for Pakistani businesses to display their products and tap into new markets.