Why source from Sialkot?
A mid-sized city in Punjab, Pakistan, with a manufacturing tradition going back generations and an export economy far larger than its size.
Specialist clusters
Sialkot's strength is its clusters: thousands of family-run workshops and export houses that specialise in a handful of products. Surgical and dental instruments, footballs and sports goods, gloves, leather apparel, sportswear and cutlery are made by networks of firms that share skills, suppliers and finishing workshops.
Exporters by design
Most production is made to order for overseas buyers, often as OEM or private label. Local industry estimates put the city's exports at more than $2.5 billion a year. Surgical instrument exports alone were about $445 million in 2025, with the USA, Germany and the UK among the main markets.
What to watch for
- Certificates vary. Some firms hold full ISO 13485 and EU MDR certification; others rely on a partner's. Always ask exactly what each certificate covers.
- Sub-contracting is common. Ask which steps happen in-house, especially finishing and quality control.
- Samples first. Experienced buyers order samples and use third-party inspection before the first bulk order.
- Compliance is the buyer's job too. Check the rules for your market (medical devices, PPE, food contact, knives) before ordering.
Sources: Surgical Instruments Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (via Arab News); Pakistan Business Council / Engineering Development Board study on surgical instrument exports; local industry estimates.