Impact of Supplier Quality Assurance Practices on Product Quality in Export-Oriented Garment Manufacturers in Pakistan

Abstract

The primary objectives of this study are to analyze the effectiveness of supplier quality management frameworks, evaluate the impact of training programs and Quality Management Systems (QMS) on quality control, and assess the moderating role of supplier relationships and regulatory compliance in enforcing quality standards. Additionally, this research seeks to identify key challenges faced by manufacturers, such as workforce skill gaps, inconsistent buyer requirements, and high compliance costs, while recommending strategic interventions to strengthen supplier quality governance in the Pakistani garment sector.

Aims & Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to analyze the effectiveness of supplier quality management frameworks, evaluate the impact of training programs and Quality Management Systems (QMS) on quality control, and assess the moderating role of supplier relationships and regulatory compliance in enforcing quality standards. Additionally, this research seeks to identify key challenges faced by manufacturers, such as workforce skill gaps, inconsistent buyer requirements, and high compliance costs, while recommending strategic interventions to strengthen supplier quality governance in the Pakistani garment sector.

Methodology: A quantitative research design was adopted, utilizing structured surveys, semi-structured interviews, factory observations, and inspection reports collected from 13 export-oriented denim manufacturers in Pakistan. The study employed descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including Chi-Square analysis, regression modeling, mediation, and moderation analysis, to establish relationships between SQA practices and product quality performance. Qualitative insights from industry experts and key stakeholders further validated the statistical findings, providing a comprehensive assessment of supplier quality assurance implementation in the sector.

Results & Findings: The results indicate that effective supplier selection, rigorous compliance monitoring, and process standardization significantly reduce fabric-related defects, stitching errors, and finishing inconsistencies. Furthermore, workforce training, process automation, and the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies emerged as critical mediators in improving supplier quality outcomes. The study also found that supplier-buyer collaboration, regulatory enforcement, and digital quality tracking systems play a moderating role in optimizing supplier quality assurance strategies. Notably, the adoption of AI-driven quality control mechanisms, blockchain-enabled traceability, and data-driven supply chain monitoring were identified as emerging technologies with the potential to revolutionize supplier quality management in the garment industry.

Conclusion: This study reinforces the strategic importance of Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) practices in ensuring high product quality, meeting global compliance standards, and enhancing Pakistan’s competitive positioning in international textile markets. The research provides practical recommendations for manufacturers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, emphasizing the need for advanced technological integration, structured workforce training, and policy reforms to optimize supplier quality assurance frameworks. Future research should explore cross-industry comparisons, regional differences in supplier quality enforcement, and the long-term impact of digital transformation on supplier quality management to further advance the field of quality assurance in global supply chains.