Textiles have been and will continue to be the mainstay of the export sector of Pakistan. They account for around 67% of total Pakistan exports (cotton-based textiles accounting for 60%). They employ 38% of labour in the country and contribute around 25% of Pakistan's GDP. As in many developing countries, Pakistan's current situation typifies the problems in the sector. It provides a story of how the new international trade order has been holding back the fruits of liberalisation for some countries while protecting the interests of others. It also highlights that the continuation of the present inequitable system cannot spread the benefits of liberalisation evenly. We must therefore move quickly towards removing inequities so as to provide equal opportunities for all to benefit from true liberalisation.
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