Open Access

A Critical Evaluation of Supply Chain and Procurement Skills Required in the Auto-Parts Industry of Pakistan for the Next Decade

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Muhammad Awais Liaqat ¹ ,

⁴ South Wales Business School, University of South Wales, UK

Abstract

The automotive parts manufacturing sector constitutes a cornerstone of Pakistan's industrial economy, contributing approximately 3% to the national GDP and supporting over 2.5 million employment opportunities across the country. As global supply chains undergo rapid digital transformation, the sustainability and competitiveness of Pakistan's auto-parts industry increasingly depend upon the strategic development of supply chain management (SCM) and procurement competencies. This qualitative study critically evaluates the evolution, current state, and future requirements of SCM skills within Pakistan's auto-parts sector. Through semi-structured interviews with eight SCM professionals representing diverse functional specializations—including procurement, logistics, operations, and sustainability—the research identifies significant skill gaps in technological proficiency, digital literacy, and sustainability competencies. The findings reveal that while foundational SCM skills such as negotiation, relationship management, and risk mitigation remain relevant, the industry faces a critical shortage of expertise in artificial intelligence, data analytics, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The study further identifies that sustainability competencies and global supply chain knowledge are emerging as non-negotiable requirements for future competitiveness. Based on these findings, the research proposes a comprehensive framework for skill development encompassing continuous professional development, industry-academia collaboration, and strategic investment in digital infrastructure. The study concludes that Pakistan's auto-parts industry stands at a pivotal juncture where strategic investment in SCM skill development will determine its capacity to compete in increasingly sophisticated global markets over the next decade.

Keywords

Supply Chain Management, Procurement Skills, Auto-Parts Industry, Digital Transformation

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