Islamabad: Pakistan’s textile and clothing exports increased 5.26 percent to USD 5.026 billion in the first quarter of the financial year 2026 to 2027, compared with USD 4.775 billion a year earlier, according to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) data released on Thursday.

The increase came despite elevated input costs that weakened exporters’ competitiveness and external disruptions that affected shipments. Exporters have warned that growth could slow further in the second quarter unless the government takes corrective measures.

The suspension of trade with Afghanistan since October 2025 and declining exports to the Middle East, particularly the UAE, amid the regional war were identified as major constraints.

Readymade garments recorded the strongest growth among the categories reported. Export earnings increased 15.69 percent, while shipment quantities rose 17.38 percent during July to September.

Knitwear exports increased 4.14 percent in value, although quantities declined 0.46 percent. Bedwear registered a slight contraction, with export earnings falling 0.07 percent and quantities decreasing 0.71 percent.

The figures show an uneven performance across textile categories: garments achieved growth in both earnings and volumes, while knitwear’s higher receipts came despite lower quantities.

Separately, Pakistan’s oil import bill increased 6.50 percent to USD 4.02 billion during the quarter, compared with USD 3.77 billion in the corresponding period last year.

Crude oil imports rose 23.10 percent in value even as imported quantities fell 6.87 percent, reflecting higher international oil prices.

Pakistan therefore earned more from textile exports during the quarter while also paying more for oil imports. Exporters’ warning places attention on production costs and access to regional markets as the second quarter begins.