FAISALABAD — Korea International Cooperation Agency has started construction of the Pak-Korea Technical Textile Centre at National Textile University, in a move aimed at helping Pakistan expand into high-value technical and industrial textiles.
The project, launched through a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, is part of broader cooperation between Pakistan and South Korea to modernize Pakistan’s textile sector through research, technology and workforce development.
Pakistan’s textile industry is one of the country’s largest export sectors, contributing more than half of national exports. Industry experts say growing global competition in conventional garments has increased the need for Pakistan to shift toward advanced technical textiles and innovation-driven manufacturing.
New centre to support textile research and training
The Pak-Korea Technical Textile Centre will include advanced research labs, manufacturing facilities, classrooms and a library focused on technical textile development.
According to KOICA, the centre will support:
- Industrial textile research
- Prototype development
- Technical training programmes
- Industry-focused policy recommendations
- Collaboration between researchers and manufacturers
The facility is expected to help strengthen Pakistan’s capacity in specialized textile production, including non-woven and composite fabric technologies.
Pakistan and South Korea deepen industrial partnership
The project is being funded under South Korea’s Official Development Assistance programme.
KOICA had earlier supported the National Textile University during a previous phase between 2013 and 2017 by providing textile manufacturing equipment and technical support.
Rashid Masood said the new centre would help improve Pakistan’s research capabilities and support the development of skilled professionals in the textile industry.
Je Ho Yeon said the facility is expected to become a major platform for technological collaboration and innovation between Pakistan and South Korea.
The ceremony also included safety briefings, contractor pledges and the distribution of safety equipment for the construction phase.
Officials from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to long-term cooperation aimed at supporting industrial modernization and innovation in Pakistan’s textile sector.
