The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has issued a strict warning to the government, stating that over half of the country's textile and apparel firms face imminent closure unless immediate action is taken. 

 APTMA blamed high energy costs, averaging twice those of competitors, for eroding Pakistan's international competitiveness. Electricity prices in the country stand at 16.7 cents/kWh, while gas prices are set to increase further. The association expressed concerns over the high inflation, weak external sector performance, and stagnant foreign exchange earnings that are creating an unsustainable economic environment impacting employment, poverty, and government finances.

Further, APTMA argued, declining industrial power consumption has increased power tariffs for all, creating a vicious cycle of declining demand and rising costs. 

The association sought a meeting with the finance minister to discuss the industry's critical situation and its potential consequences for the entire economy...It further urged the government to implement urgent corrective measures to address the energy crisis and improve the overall economic environment.