Pakistan’s garment and textile industry stands at a pivotal moment, poised to harness its vast potential through responsible growth and innovation. Recently, a dynamic two-day Better Work Pakistan Business Forum, hosted by the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Better Work programme, spotlighted the critical role of stronger social dialogue, sustainable compliance, and collaborative efforts in reshaping this vital sector. As the industry faces global competition and local challenges, these strategies are emerging as the backbone for a resilient and prosperous future.
The Power of Collaboration and Data-Driven Progress
The forum brought together a diverse group—government officials, employer and worker representatives, brands, and factory leaders—to assess achievements and chart the next steps for Better Work Pakistan. The consensus? Data is the key to unlocking smarter strategies. By harnessing programme insights, stakeholders can fine-tune labour laws, craft industry-specific plans, and foster an environment ripe for decent work opportunities. Enhanced factory systems, backed by evidence, promise self-sustaining gains in compliance and competitiveness, setting a foundation for long-term success.
High-level discussions and hands-on workshops turned ideas into actionable priorities. Case studies from participating factories highlighted practical ways to boost safety, productivity, and worker well-being, reinforcing a shared commitment to elevate the sector’s global standing.
A Unified Vision for the Future
Industry leaders voiced strong support for the programme’s impact. Geir Tonstol, steering ILO Pakistan, emphasized that thriving in textiles goes beyond mere compliance—it’s about weaving a future where fair practices and competitiveness intertwine. Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain echoed this, stressing that inclusive progress hinges on justice and dialogue, a principle the government champions across all sectors.
From the workers’ side, Chaudhry Saad Muhammad hailed Better Work Pakistan as a game-changer, fostering trust and productivity through open dialogue and mutual accountability. Meanwhile, Malik Tahir Javid, representing employers, praised the programme’s role in sharpening Pakistan’s competitive edge, advocating for its expansion into new industries while bolstering enterprise capabilities.
Ivo Spauwen, driving the programme, underscored the need for smart partnerships focusing on sustainability, resource efficiency, and worker health to build safer, more resilient workplaces.
Numbers That Tell the Story
Since its inception, Better Work Pakistan has made significant strides. Engaging 121 factories, the initiative has conducted over 180 assessments, delivered 1,200 advisory visits, and provided 500 tailored trainings to more than 6,000 participants. These efforts have fortified compliance systems, enhanced safety protocols, and boosted productivity. Globally, the programme’s track record shines, with sustained non-compliance drops averaging 27% in other Asian regions over multiple cycles, particularly in occupational safety, human resources, and worker rights.
The road ahead is promising yet challenging. Expanding the programme’s reach requires overcoming logistical hurdles and securing broader industry buy-in. Sustainability efforts must balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, a critical factor as global demand for eco-friendly textiles rises. Moreover, strengthening worker-employer trust through dialogue could inspire innovation, positioning Pakistan as a leader in ethical manufacturing.
From an economic angle, this sector employs millions, contributing significantly to GDP. Socially, it offers a chance to uplift communities through fair wages and safe conditions. Politically, aligning with international labour standards could enhance Pakistan’s trade relations, opening doors to new markets.
A Future Built on Resilience and Fairness
Pakistan’s garment and textile sector is on the cusp of a transformation. By embracing social dialogue, leveraging data, and prioritizing sustainability, the industry can achieve competitive growth while setting a global benchmark for responsible practices. The momentum from the Better Work Pakistan Forum signals a united front—government, workers, employers, and brands—ready to shape a future where progress and justice go hand in hand. As the sector evolves, staying adaptable will be key to unlocking its full potential on the world stage.
