Exporters urge govt to address cost pressures

According to The Express Tribune, the Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PRGMEA) has asked authorities to act without delay on rising costs and logistics setbacks hitting the export-focused apparel industry. In a statement, North Zone Chairman Imran Salahuddin said exporters are dealing with uncertain fuel prices, steep power and gas charges, costly financing, delayed refunds and cargo delays all at once. He warned that these pressures are making it harder for them to stay competitive in overseas markets.

The association warned that fuel prices now changing every day under a newly adopted regime add uncertainty for exporters, who often agree deals months early at mostly fixed rates. Exporters, it said, are unable to fully shift higher energy and freight costs onto foreign buyers. The strain has grown worse because a nationwide transporters' strike is now entering its fifth straight day.

Cargo movement has been badly disrupted and warehouses are reportedly refusing extra consignments, leaving export containers stuck at factories. The stranded freight raises the risk of missed shipping dates, demurrage and detention charges, and damage to buyer trust.