Pakistani textile mill owners on Monday expressed optimism that U.S. President Donald Trump would lower tariffs on Pakistan’s exports, following his statement about significantly boosting trade with Pakistan and India after a ceasefire between the two nations.

Trump made his statement a day after Washington mediated a ceasefire, following four days of fighter jet, missile, drone, and artillery strikes between India and Pakistan.
“While not even discussed, I am going to increase trade, substantially, with both of these great nations,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Pakistan is subject to a 29% tariff because of its $3 billion trade surplus with the U.S. However, last month, the U.S. declared a 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs.

The All-Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) described Trump’s statement as a positive sign for US-Pakistan economic relations, particularly in the textile industry, which remains the foundation of Pakistan’s export economy.
Pakistan ranks as the second-largest importer of U.S. cotton and has implemented strategic measures to boost cotton imports, addressing concerns over the trade imbalance.

“In line with these increased imports, we expect the US to reduce existing and proposed tariffs on Pakistan’s exports, thereby enhancing market access and unlocking greater trade opportunities,” APTMA said.

The United States is Pakistan’s top export destination, with textiles making up nearly 80% of the country’s total exports to the U.S. market.
Pakistan’s textile industry covers the entire value chain and has an established history of producing and exporting a wide range of textile products.

APTMA also stated that it backs global initiatives, especially those led by the U.S., to promote lasting peace in South Asia, emphasizing the resolution of longstanding conflicts through dialogue and mutual understanding.

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