As local demand for disposable masks declines, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) producing such masks have urged the government to allow them to explore the export markets.
During the previous months, disposal masks had been in short supply in the country due to high demand induced by Covid-19.
According to a report published by a local media outlet, the price of a box containing 50 masks surged from Rs150 to Rs1,200-1,800.
A large number of people in the country opted to enter the business of mask production anticipating a sustained high demand, however, the demand is now on a downward trajectory as Covid-19 cases fall in the country.
The drop in demand is expected to reduce prices of masks, prompting manufacturers to move into export markets or move away from the business entirely.Â
According to the report, Gulf, Middle East and European countries have already approved samples of Pakistani masks and have been sending regular enquiries to import masks from Pakistan.
Earlier on July 10, Advisor to the Prime Minister (PM) on Commerce and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood had said that the government was considering export of surgical masks and will allow export once more authentic data regarding their availability in the domestic market emerges.
