The textile industry is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. It accounts for nearly 60% of total exports and provides employment to millions of people across the country. From spinning yarn to producing world-class garments, Pakistan’s textile sector covers the entire value chain. It plays a key role in the country’s GDP and industrial development, making it one of the most competitive industries in South Asia.
Textile companies in Pakistan are now modernizing their operations through technology, sustainability, and quality improvement. Many are exporting to Europe, the USA, and the Middle East. In this article, we will explore the top 10 textile companies in Pakistan that are setting industry standards in production, innovation, and global reach.
Overview of Pakistan’s Textile Industry
Pakistan is one of the world’s top cotton-producing countries, which gives it a natural advantage in textile manufacturing. Major textile hubs include Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. The industry is divided into:
Spinning: Converting cotton into yarn
Weaving and Knitting: Producing fabrics
Processing and Dyeing: Adding colors and finishes
Garments and Home Textiles: Final products for retail and export
Despite challenges like energy shortages and global competition, the textile industry continues to grow. The demand for sustainable and fire-safe production facilities has also increased, creating opportunities for service providers in safety and industrial solutions.
1. Gul Ahmed Textile Mills Limited
Gul Ahmed is one of the most recognized textile companies in Pakistan. Established in 1953, it operates as a fully integrated textile manufacturer — from spinning and weaving to finished garments and retail.
Key Highlights:
Headquartered in Karachi with advanced production units.
Produces yarn, fabric, home textiles, and apparel.
Operates “Ideas by Gul Ahmed” retail chain across Pakistan.
Exports to over 40 countries.
Industry Impact:
Gul Ahmed’s continuous innovation in design, technology, and retail has made it a leader in Pakistan’s textile industry. The company also maintains high standards in workplace safety and sustainability — vital aspects of modern manufacturing.
2. Nishat Mills Limited
Nishat Mills Limited is part of the Nishat Group, one of Pakistan’s most diversified business conglomerates. The company operates one of the largest textile composite units in South Asia.
Key Highlights:
Founded in 1951 and headquartered in Lahore.
Produces yarn, fabric, denim, and garments.
Supplies to international brands in Europe and the USA.
Known for energy-efficient and environment-friendly operations.
Industry Impact:
Nishat Mills is a symbol of reliability and quality. Its emphasis on innovation and sustainability gives Pakistan a strong presence in the global textile market. The company also focuses on industrial safety standards across its facilities.
3. Interloop Limited
Interloop Limited is a leading name in Pakistan’s hosiery and knitwear segment. It is one of the largest manufacturers of socks and legwear in the world.
Key Highlights:
Established in 1992 and based in Faisalabad.
Manufactures socks, denim, apparel, and activewear.
Clients include Nike, Adidas, H&M, and Puma.
Employs over 25,000 people.
Industry Impact:
Interloop has set a global standard for efficiency, sustainability, and worker safety. Its modern production units follow strict compliance with international standards, making it one of Pakistan’s most admired textile exporters.
4. Artistic Milliners
Artistic Milliners is a pioneer in Pakistan’s denim manufacturing sector. It produces premium denim fabrics and apparel for top global brands.
Key Highlights:
Headquartered in Karachi.
Supplies to Levi’s, H&M, Zara, and Gap.
Focuses heavily on sustainable production and renewable energy.
Operates modern laundry and finishing facilities.
Industry Impact:
Artistic Milliners is redefining Pakistan’s position in the global denim industry. Its focus on ethical production, safety, and green technology makes it a leader in sustainable textile manufacturing.
5. Crescent Textile Mills Limited
Crescent Textile Mills, also known as “Crescent Mills,” is a well-established company with decades of experience in textile manufacturing.
Key Highlights:
Established in 1950 and based in Faisalabad.
Produces yarn, woven fabrics, and home textiles.
Supplies products to both local and export markets.
Emphasizes high-quality production and process innovation.
Industry Impact:
Crescent Mills maintains a strong reputation for quality and reliability. It contributes significantly to Pakistan’s textile exports and supports local employment in the manufacturing sector.
6. Sapphire Textile Mills Limited
Sapphire Textile Mills is part of the Sapphire Group and is known for its vertically integrated textile operations.
Key Highlights:
Established in 1969 and headquartered in Lahore.
Produces yarn, woven fabric, and finished garments.
Operates spinning, weaving, dyeing, and finishing units.
Supplies to major global brands.
Industry Impact:
Sapphire has become a trusted name in textile exports due to its innovation, quality, and energy-efficient processes. It also promotes workplace safety and sustainability initiatives throughout its facilities.
7. Al-Karam Textile Mills
Al-Karam Textile Mills is one of Pakistan’s top exporters of textile products and garments. It has a strong presence in both local and international markets.
Key Highlights:
Established in 1986, headquartered in Karachi.
Produces fabric, home textiles, and garments.
Operates retail brand “Alkaram Studio” in Pakistan and abroad.
Focuses on design innovation and modern technology.
Industry Impact:
Al-Karam is known for its creativity and customer-oriented approach. It maintains a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and sustainable manufacturing — all vital for long-term global success.
8. Kohinoor Textile Mills Limited
Kohinoor Textile Mills is one of the oldest and most respected names in Pakistan’s textile sector.
Key Highlights:
Established in 1953 and based in Lahore.
Produces yarn, woven fabrics, and denim.
Supplies products to major international brands.
Known for high-quality spinning and weaving capabilities.
Industry Impact:
Kohinoor Textile Mills represents tradition and innovation working together. It continues to play a vital role in textile exports and industrial safety modernization in the sector.
9. Chenab Limited
Chenab Limited is a well-known name in textile processing, garments, and home furnishing products.
Key Highlights:
Established in 1975, headquartered in Faisalabad.
Vertically integrated production — spinning, weaving, dyeing, and stitching.
Exports to Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Offers high-end home textile products under its own brand.
Industry Impact:
Chenab Limited adds value through design excellence and sustainability. It emphasizes safety and environmental compliance while maintaining strong export relationships worldwide.
10. Soorty Enterprises
Soorty Enterprises is a modern, innovation-driven textile manufacturer focusing on denim production.
Key Highlights:
Based in Karachi with advanced manufacturing units.
Supplies denim fabrics and jeans to top global brands.
Focuses on ethical production and sustainable operations.
Uses renewable energy and water-recycling systems.
Industry Impact:
Soorty Enterprises is among the top eco-friendly manufacturers in Pakistan. It integrates technology, design, and sustainability, positioning Pakistan as a global leader in responsible textile production.
The Growing Importance of Textile Manufacturing
Pakistan’s textile companies are investing heavily in modernization, renewable energy, and advanced machinery. The shift towards sustainable manufacturing and safety compliance is shaping the industry’s future. These developments also create opportunities for fire-safety, industrial automation, and facility maintenance businesses.
The textile sector is also diversifying into technical fabrics, eco-friendly materials, and smart textiles to meet international demand. With supportive government policies and rising exports, the future of textile manufacturing in Pakistan looks promising.
Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges:
Energy shortages and high production costs.
Global competition from countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
Need for technological upgrades and skill development.
Opportunities:
Increasing global demand for sustainable and ethical textiles.
Expansion of local retail brands.
Integration of safety and automation in production facilities.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan’s textile industry stands tall as a global leader in quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. These top 10 companies are not only powering the national economy but also shaping the country’s industrial identity on the world stage.
From spinning mills in Faisalabad to denim factories in Karachi, these firms represent excellence, dedication, and progress. As sustainability and safety become global priorities, Pakistan’s textile sector is adapting quickly to maintain its competitive edge.
Whether you are a buyer, supplier, or service provider — understanding these companies can open doors to long-term partnerships in one of Pakistan’s most powerful industries.
