NPO Launches Productivity Enhancement Initiative

In a significant move to strengthen Pakistan’s industrial competitiveness, the National Productivity Organization (NPO), under the Ministry of Industries and Production, has launched a targeted productivity enhancement initiative for the gloves manufacturing sector in Sialkot

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jul, 2025) In a significant move to strengthen Pakistan’s industrial competitiveness, the National Productivity Organization (NPO), under the Ministry of Industries and Production, has launched a targeted productivity enhancement initiative for the gloves manufacturing sector in Sialkot.

The project, titled “Enhancing Operational Efficiency Through Lean Manufacturing Techniques,” is being implemented in collaboration with the Pakistan Gloves Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PGMEA) with technical support from the Asian Productivity Organization (APO), Japan, according to a spokesman for SMEDA (Small and Medium Development Authority) here Monday.

As part of this initiative, an international productivity expert, Mr. George Wong from Singapore, arrived in Sialkot to conduct a series of on-site assessments and tailored consultancy sessions for selected beneficiary companies recommended by PGMEA. The project adopts a phased approach comprising face-to-face site visits, customized workshops, and follow-up technical sessions to ensure sustained improvements in operational efficiency.

The spokesman highlighted that this intervention is specifically designed to introduce advanced Lean Manufacturing concepts to the local industry, aiming to reduce waste, optimize processes, and bolster global competitiveness. “NPO is confident that this project will serve as a model for sector-specific productivity enhancement, enabling our manufacturers to meet stringent international quality and efficiency standards,” he added.

The project’s initial phase involves a five-day program in Sialkot, including individual diagnostics at company premises followed by a two-day joint workshop to build collective understanding of Lean tools. Subsequent phases will involve online engagements and another round of on-ground technical sessions focusing on implementation.

During a meeting with Waseem Shahbaz Lodhi, Senior Vice President of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and another meeting with Annas Raheel, Chairman PGMEA, both leaders expressed their appreciation for the collaborative efforts of NPO and APO in bringing international expertise to Pakistan’s doorstep. They emphasized that such initiatives are vital for sustaining export growth and reinforcing Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable supplier in the global gloves market.

The National Productivity Organization continues to work closely with sectoral associations, chambers and international partners like APO to build a more resilient and competitive industrial landscape in Pakistan. This project reflects the government’s commitment to fostering productivity-led growth and supporting key export-oriented sectors.