PCMEA Leadership Change to Revitalize Handloom Carpet Industry

In recent developments, the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) has undergone a significant leadership change, aiming to address the pressing challenges faced by the handloom carpet industry. This transition comes at a crucial time when the industry is grappling with various issues that hinder its growth and sustainability.

The newly elected leadership includes Mian Atiqur Rehman as Chairman, Zahid Nazir as Senior Vice Chairman for the Southern Zone, and Riyaz Ahmed as Vice Chairman for the Northern Zone. Additionally, Abdul Latif Malik has been appointed as Patron-in-Chief, acknowledging his substantial contributions to the sector. The elections for the Executive Committee members from both the Northern and Southern Zones were conducted unopposed, ensuring a smooth transition of power. Each official will serve a term of two years, as confirmed by a PCMEA spokesperson.

The Northern Zone Executive Committee comprises notable members such as Mehmood Ahmed, Bilal Ahmad Butt, and Muhammad Jafar Khalid, while the Southern Zone is represented by Parvez Sajjad, Muhammad Arif Latif, and others. This diverse group of leaders is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the challenges that the handloom carpet industry faces.

Chairman Mian Atiqur Rehman and his team have expressed their commitment to tackling these challenges head-on. They have acknowledged the trust placed in them by the members and are determined to drive growth within the industry. In a heartfelt gesture, they paid tribute to the outgoing officials, particularly Senior Vice Chairman Usman Ashraf, for his relentless efforts in highlighting the issues confronting the handwoven carpet sector. His dedication to advocating for the industry has been pivotal in raising awareness and seeking solutions.

Rehman and Ahmed have vowed to continue Ashraf's legacy, ensuring that the industry’s problems are addressed and that development remains a priority. They emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in the handwoven carpet industry, stating that everyone must play their part to achieve collective success.

Usman Ashraf, reflecting on his tenure, expressed gratitude to the members for their teamwork and achievements. While acknowledging that some challenges remain unresolved, he remains optimistic about the future. He highlighted the ongoing preparations for the 40th World Exhibition of Handwoven Carpets, which he believes will significantly benefit the industry and the national economy through increased foreign exchange.

The new leadership of the PCMEA is poised to make a meaningful impact on the handloom carpet industry. Their commitment to addressing challenges and fostering collaboration among industry players is commendable. As the preparations for the upcoming international exhibition progress, there is hope that this event will not only showcase the rich heritage of handwoven carpets but also provide a much-needed boost to the industry and the economy as a whole. The future looks promising, and with dedicated efforts, the handloom carpet industry can reclaim its position as a vital contributor to Pakistan's economic landscape.