Textile 4.0 in Pakistan: Readiness Assessment, Barriers, and Strategic Recommendations

This study examines the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) in Pakistan’s textile sector, focusing on two key objectives: assessing the current readiness for I4.0 and identifying barriers to I4.0 implementation. We employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys (n = 106) and qualitative interviews conducted using an online Google Form. The research applies an adapted IMPULS readiness model to evaluate six dimensions of I4.0 readiness. As the first comprehensive readiness assessment of Pakistan’s textile sector, this research supports RBV and STTT theories along with the direct contributions to SDG-9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by evaluating I4.0 readiness gaps, SDG-8 (Decent Work), through workforce skill interventions, SDG-4 (Education), Pakistan Vision-2025 and international trade compliance (e.g., GSP+) by proposing actionable strategies for policymakers and industry leaders to transition toward sustainable smart manufacturing. Findings reveal significant gaps across infrastructure, skills, and strategic vision, placing the sector at an Intermediate Level with an overall readiness score of 2.060. The study further identifies critical barriers impeding the transition to Industry 4.0, despite the textile sector’s substantial contribution to Pakistan’s economy. Actionable recommendations are proposed for policymakers and industry stakeholders to support the shift toward sustainable, smart manufacturing.