KARACHI: Pakistan’s textile and apparel exporters must accelerate investment in green supply chains, cleaner production and digital technologies to remain competitive as international buyers place greater emphasis on environmental performance and supply chain transparency, industry and academic experts said.
Speaking at the launch of the second Global Procurement & Supply Chain Summit (GPS 2027) at NED University, participants identified sustainability compliance, technological readiness, and workforce development as priorities for strengthening exports.
The summit, organised by Horizon Summit Management, will take place in Karachi on January 20, 2027.
Hafiz Kashif, Director of Artistic Milliners, said global buyers, particularly those serving European and other environmentally conscious markets, were increasingly assessing suppliers’ carbon footprints, energy efficiency, water conservation and responsible sourcing practices.
He highlighted the importance of reducing emissions and adopting sustainable procurement practices to maintain access to international markets. Cleaner technologies, renewable energy, and recognised sustainability standards were becoming increasingly relevant to exporters’ long-term competitiveness.
The discussion also highlighted difficulties facing smaller manufacturers and suppliers as they seek to meet evolving compliance requirements while managing rising production costs.
Dr Majida Kazmi, Professor at NED University, Vice Chairperson of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan–Karachi Centre and Director of the STEM Centre, stressed the need to build practical capabilities in artificial intelligence, automation and digital technologies.
She said their application in industrial operations, procurement and supply chain management required closer collaboration between universities and businesses to align education with industry needs.
An interdisciplinary approach to science, technology, engineering and mathematics would help students develop analytical thinking, adaptability and practical problem-solving skills, she added.
Participants said export competitiveness would increasingly depend on resilient supply chains and skilled workers alongside manufacturing capacity and pricing.
Horizon Summit Management CEO Syed Faisal Ali thanked participants and acknowledged the media’s role in highlighting Pakistan’s industrial capabilities and innovation.
GPS 2027 will bring together industry leaders, procurement professionals, technology experts, policymakers and academics to examine sustainable sourcing, industrial automation, AI adoption and opportunities across the textile and apparel value chain.
Representatives from textiles, IT, engineering, procurement and supply chain management attended the launch
