Quick answer: UK brands can source from Pakistan by choosing a certified factory, approving samples, and using DCTS proof of origin so most garments enter the UK with zero import duty.
Pakistan is one of the most cost-effective places for UK brands to make clothing and sportswear, helped by duty-free access under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme. This guide covers the service models, trade rules and labelling UK brands need to know, from first sample to delivery.
Quick answer
UK brands can source from Pakistan through OEM (your design), private label (factory styles with your branding) or custom teamwear. Pakistan is in the Enhanced Preferences tier of the UK DCTS, so most garments enter the UK with zero import duty when the origin rules are met and an origin declaration is provided. Import VAT still applies. UK garments must be labelled with fibre composition; care and origin labels are strongly recommended.
Sourcing from Pakistan? Ravix Pro Industry in Sialkot is a sportswear and clothing manufacturer trusted by sports clubs and clothing brands in the USA, UK, Europe, Canada, Australia and the UAE. One factory for custom, OEM and private label production, with in-house sublimation, printing and embroidery and an MOQ of 30 pieces per design. USA · UK · EU · Get a free quote.
Part of our guide: Pakistan Clothing Manufacturing: The Complete Guide · Quick answers
Service models for UK brands
| Model | You provide | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| OEM / cut and sew | Tech pack and design | Brands with signature fits. See OEM clothing |
| Private label | Logo, colours, labels | Startups, gyms, fast launches. See private label |
| Teamwear | Club crest, colours, roster | Football, rugby and cricket clubs. See football kits |
Duty-free access: the UK DCTS
The Developing Countries Trading Scheme replaced the UK GSP in 2023. Pakistan is in the Enhanced Preferences tier, which removes import duty on most garments. To claim it:
- The goods must meet the DCTS rules of origin (garments made in Pakistan generally qualify).
- The exporter provides an origin declaration on the commercial invoice (or a Form A).
- Your broker claims the preference on the import declaration. Preferences can be claimed up to two years after import if missed.
Without the preference, many knitted garments would pay the standard UK Global Tariff rate, often around 12%.
UK labelling and safety
| Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| Fibre composition (Textile Products Regulations) | Mandatory |
| Care instructions | Not legally required but expected by retailers and customers |
| Country of origin | Not mandatory, but must not be misleading; most brands include it |
| Children’s clothing | Drawstring and small-parts safety rules apply |
MOQ, cost and lead time
- MOQ: 30 pieces per design at Ravix Pro, sizes mixed. Ideal for UK startups; see sportswear for startups.
- Lead time: about 6–10 weeks door to door including sampling. See lead time.
- Cost: see clothing manufacturing costs; remember duty is usually zero under DCTS.
Shipping and import
Small orders arrive in 3–7 days by air express; larger orders go by sea to Felixstowe or Southampton. Full details on EORI, VAT and documents are in our UK import and shipping guide.
Learn more on our UK clothing manufacturer page.
Selling in the EU as well? Read how European brands source clothing from Pakistan and our guide for German brands.
From our factory floor in Sialkot
At Ravix Pro Industry we have manufactured sportswear since 2008. Every order follows the same 11 steps: quote, design, approval, sample, cutting, decoration, stitching, thread trimming, quality check, packing and door-to-door shipping. Sublimation, screen printing, embroidery and stitching happen in-house, so we control colour, print quality and timing ourselves. The most common problem we see with first-time buyers is skipping the sample; a physical sample costs a little extra but prevents expensive surprises in bulk. See our manufacturing process and quality checks.
Ready to start? Request a free quote or message us on WhatsApp with your design, quantity and sizes. MOQ from 30 pieces per design. We reply within 24 hours.
FAQs
Is clothing from Pakistan duty-free in the UK?
Most garments are, under the DCTS Enhanced Preferences tier, when origin rules are met and an origin declaration is provided. Import VAT still applies.
What labels does clothing need in the UK?
Fibre composition is mandatory. Care instructions and country of origin are strongly recommended and expected by retailers.
What is the MOQ for UK brands?
At Ravix Pro, 30 pieces per design with mixed sizes.
Do you make private label sportswear for UK brands?
Yes. We make private label gym wear, teamwear, streetwear and combat sports gear with your labels and packaging.
How long does delivery to the UK take?
About 3 to 7 days by air express, or roughly 3 to 5 weeks by sea.
Sources
- GOV.UK, “How to claim preferences under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)”: gov.uk
- Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, UK DCTS briefing: tdap.gov.pk
- ProPakistani, “UK announces initiatives to boost trade with Pakistan” (Developing Countries Trading Scheme), June 2023: propakistani.pk
