At a time when the global industry is readying for further change, the International Apparel Federation has decided to hold its next Convention for 2019 in partnership with Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) in Lahore, Pakistan.
It is coming to a country with a long history and tradition in textiles and apparel. It was here that Greeks found cotton and thought that wool was growing on trees. It is a territory that was within the fragmented Silk rout, thus becoming part of global trade at an early stage. The Charkha (spinning wheel) has always remained a part of its folklore and Sufi Chants. The Julaha (hand weaving artisan) always was and even today is an essential part of society and economy. Therefore, the Convention is rightly coming home at a time when the apparel industry is likely to be reborn into its next life.
PRGMEA
Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PRGMEA) came into being in 1980 as a representative trade body of manufacturers and exporters of value added readymade garments. It is the largest value-added Textile Association of Pakistan with Zonal offices in Karachi, Lahore and Sialkot. It has more than 1,000 members across the country. PRGMEA is recognized by the Government of Pakistan and affiliated with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry. It is also affiliated with AAFA (American Apparel & Footwear Association) and Modint of the Netherlands. PRGMEA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the French Garment Association. PRGMEA serves as a bridge between Government Agencies and the Garment Exporters in resolving their issues and also assists in developing trade relationships with other countries.
The Pakistan Readymade Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) has been chosen by International Apparel Federation to be the local host of the event and to coordinate with other essential stakeholders, locally as well as internationally. No doubt, with its connectivity, PRGMEA is the correct partner for proposed Convention. Apart from Industry and Trade stakeholders, the Government of Pakistan through Ministry of Commerce and Textiles has assured their support for the success of event.