Pakistan’s used clothing traders have expressed strong resentment over the government’s decision to impose a Rs200 per kilogram tax on the import of second-hand garments, warning that the move will make winter wear unaffordable for low-income families.
According to traders, the new tax has significantly increased the cost of used winter clothing, with prices rising by Rs500 to Rs1,500 per item. They cautioned that the decision would disproportionately affect the poor and lower-middle class, who rely on second-hand markets for affordable clothing during the cold season.
“These high duties have made it difficult for us to import goods in bulk,” said one trader. “Previously, we imported containers full of used clothes, but now the heavy duties have made the stock too expensive for customers.”
Traders said that despite higher import costs, they are trying to keep prices as low as possible, but warned that further increases could push used clothes out of reach for ordinary buyers.
They urged the government to reduce taxes on second-hand clothing imports, arguing that the sector serves as a lifeline for low-income citizens, especially in winter months.
Industry representatives have also highlighted that the used clothing trade provides employment opportunities for thousands of workers across Pakistan and supports small-scale retailers in urban and rural markets alike.
