AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Lahore: The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) has organized a consultative session aimed at aligning the second phase of its Industrial Stitching Units project with the government’s Uraan Pakistan program. The initiative seeks to enhance exports through small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the textile garments manufacturing sector.
According to a statement by Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, the session was chaired by SMEDA’s Chief Executive Officer, Socrat Aman Rana, and attended by representatives from various textile associations, including APTMA, PRGMEA, and PHMA. Officials from the Ministry of Industries and Production and the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives participated via video link.
CEO Socrat Aman Rana explained that the project, inaugurated in 2018, aims to provide matching grants to support new business startups and existing SMEs in establishing industrial stitching units. The first phase, nearing completion by June 30, 2025, has already proven successful. Plans for Phase II are underway, with a focus on export-oriented units and an increased grant size of Rs. 5.0 million, supporting approximately 50 machines designed for export orders.
Project Director Muhammad Raza highlighted the achievements of Phase I, which facilitated 150 units across the country, creating over 1,200 new jobs and empowering women entrepreneurship, with 41% of units owned by females. Participants from the private sector commended the project’s transparency and technical support, offering suggestions for Phase II’s development.
Phase II is set to expand its scope to multiple textile export sectors, including readymade garments, fashion apparel, and leather garments, among others. This marks a significant shift from Phase I, which primarily focused on hosiery and basic home textiles.