LAHORE:

For years, the massive textile mills of Punjab have been the engine of Pakistan's economy, but that engine is now sputtering, threatened by internal stagnation and the arrival of efficient, deep-pocketed Chinese competitors.

The sector, which contributes over 60% of the country's export receipts and employs millions, has seen its exports trapped between $16 billion and $18 billion for many years. Industry veterans blame uncompetitive energy prices and policy inconsistency, but the arrival of Chinese investment under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is forcing a harsh reassessment.

"The $18 billion mark is a barrier built by our own policies, not our potential," said a former Chairman of the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association. "With regionally competitive energy ta

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