ISLAMABAD: The federal government has formed a committee headed by the petroleum minister to resolve the issue of gas load-shedding for the textile sector during forthcoming winter months.

In a meeting with the textile minister here on Wednesday the representatives of the textile sector demanded 300 mmcfd gas to meet the export targets.

The committee would determine the priority sectors for the supply of gas during the load-shedding hours.

Textile Minister Rana Farooq, while talking to the delegation, said that the textile industry was playing an important role in economic development that’s why priority should be given to this industry.

The delegation consisted of representatives of Aptma, PHMA, APTP, Prgmea, PTEA TMA, PCMA and Cotton Power Looms Association.

Detailed discussions were held about the increasing yarn prices and its export. The meeting was informed that yarn exports have increased by 30 per cent that has made a negative impact on the local markets.

The international price of yarn was now $1.96 per kg and the main exports are destined for China due to cotton crop failure in that country, the textile minister was informed.

The issue of the PSF and other textile sector related matters were also discussed, and the members of the apparel sector demanded restrictions on yarn exports.