International Markets Development Division (Africa Desk) of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), in collaboration with the Minister (Trade and Investment) in Ethiopia, successfully organized a webinar titled “Exploring the Ethiopian Market: Textile and Leather Sector” on 26th December, 2024. The session marked the conclusion of a series of webinars aimed at promoting the upcoming 5th Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) and Single Country Exhibition (SCE), scheduled to be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 14–16 May 2025.
The webinar witnessed the participation of around 30 representatives from textile and leather companies from the both sides. The session provided a comprehensive platform to discuss opportunities for collaboration and enhance bilateral trade in the textile and leather sectors.
Ms. Saima Azhar, Director IMDD, delivered the opening remarks. She emphasized the significance of Pakistan’s textile and leather industries, renowned globally for their quality, innovation, and craftsmanship.
Mr. Basit Saleem Shah, Minister Trade and Investment in Ethiopia, provided an insightful presentation on Pakistan-Ethiopia bilateral trade, and key areas of mutual cooperation. He apprised participants about the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Pakistan’s All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) and Ethiopian counterparts, Ethiopian Textile and Garment Manufacturers Association (ETGMA).
Ms. Adeela Younis, Trade and Investment Counsellor in Kenya, shared insights on Pakistan’s trade with Kenya, further highlighting the potential for regional collaboration.
Key speakers from Ethiopia, including Mr. Shamshad Hussain of Desta Garments, Mr. Asefa Getnet from the Tannery sector, Mr. Ageazi, Secretary General of ETGMA, and representatives from Edget Garments Mr. Berhanu Degefa and Ms. Nigist Mesafint from Henes Garments, presented valuable perspectives on the Ethiopian textile and leather industries. They underscored Ethiopia’s growing opportunities and invited Pakistani companies to explore the Ethiopian market.
The speakers collectively highlighted Pakistan’s robust textile and leather sectors as integral pillars of the country’s industrial and export landscape. These sectors significantly contribute to Pakistan’s export revenue, with a proven capacity to meet diverse global demands for high-quality textile and leather products.
