The history of Pakistan in sport industry dates back to1883. Since then Pakistan has proved its metal and image as a successful manufacturing hub across the globe. In 1918, syed sahib Muslim craftsman caught international attention when he reverse engineered a football brought to him for re-stitching. This won him the confidence for making sport accessories for the British forces. Resultantly in1922 Syed Sahib was awarded the first export award from the British empire. In recognition of his craftsmanship and skill while supplying footballs to British troops stationed in Singapore. Since that time, there was no looking back in this industry and the sector grow leaps and bounds till today by establishing a strong football at the global market.
Pakistan is a manufacturer of world-class sports items that have been used in international matches and tournaments. “Tango ball” from sialcott was used in 1982 FIFA world cup and this opportunity open doors for international sports industry in Pakistan. The country earned the prestigious award for being the official soccer ball supplier to FIFA world cup since 1994 and recent being in 2014 and in 2018. In 2018, “New Tester” was a state-of-the-art football with near field communication chip. (NFC). Currently Sialkot provides 70% of the global demand of football and producing for all the major international sports brands names like Adidas Nike, puma, selcet lotto, Umbro Wilsons etc. Which speaks volumes of the craftsmanship and skills of Pakistani manufacturers. Beside football Pakistan also manufactures volleyball rugby ball beach ball exercise ball hockey ball baseball tennis ball shuttlecocks nets gloves hockey sticks cricket bats baseball bags protective guards sportswear and water sports and camping equipment. The use of high quality raw material, innovate design in skilled labour force using modern technology has helped achieved the global recognition as well as foreign exchange beside Pakistan in also making world class cricket bats for global brands like CA,MB,IHSAN Slazenger, Gun and more etc. The industry has evolved itself to cater the needs of global as well as local suppliers as per their demand and specifications.
The sport industry pivotal for Pakistan’s economic development and is causing a name and recognition globally. Skilled workforce using higher and material and application of modern techniques is what makes this possible. The government policies and the inclusion of entrepreneurs in this sector is contributing greatly towards its growth. The outbreak of covid-19 has affected the sector but it will come back to its full potential surely.
Sri Lanka has a great potential for sports with the active young population enthusiastic about sports. Football, cricket, hockey etc are some of the active sports that are a very good way for the two countries to explore a mutual place for further people to people interaction and for the future generations to come further closer.
“Long Live Relationship of Sri Lanka and Pakistan”
