Forward Sports, one of Pakistan’s most prominent sporting goods manufacturers and a major global football supplier, is set to expand its international footprint by starting operations in Saudi Arabia this year. The expansion will take place through a joint venture, according to the company’s chief executive officer.

The move marks a significant milestone for the Pakistan-based company, which has built a strong reputation in the global sports industry over the past two decades. Forward Sports is widely known for its long-standing partnership with Adidas and its role as a supplier of footballs for major international tournaments.

The company was one of only two manufacturers selected to produce the Al Rihla match ball used during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. That achievement placed Forward Sports among an elite group of suppliers trusted to meet FIFA’s strict quality and performance standards.

Forward Sports currently produces around 15 million footballs annually, with the majority of its output destined for export markets. Its manufacturing operations are based in Pakistan, where the company has invested heavily in technology, skilled labor, and quality control to meet the demands of global brands.

In recent years, the company has further strengthened its position by replacing a Chinese competitor as Adidas’ largest football supplier. This shift highlights Pakistan’s growing competitiveness in high-value sports manufacturing and reflects Forward Sports’ ability to deliver consistent quality at scale.

The planned joint venture in Saudi Arabia aligns with broader regional trends, as Gulf countries continue to invest in sports, manufacturing, and industrial diversification. Saudi Arabia, in particular, has been expanding its sports infrastructure and local production capabilities as part of its long-term economic transformation strategy.

By establishing operations in the Kingdom, Forward Sports aims to be closer to key markets while benefiting from regional logistics, investment incentives, and access to new business opportunities. The expansion is also expected to strengthen the company’s relationship with global clients seeking diversified supply chains.

Industry experts see the move as a positive development for Pakistan’s export-oriented manufacturing sector. Successful overseas expansion by local companies can enhance the country’s industrial reputation and open doors for further collaboration in international markets.

The joint venture model is expected to allow Forward Sports to combine its technical expertise with local partnerships in Saudi Arabia. While operational details have not yet been disclosed, the company’s leadership has expressed confidence that the initiative will support long-term growth.

As Forward Sports prepares to launch operations in Saudi Arabia, the expansion underscores Pakistan’s potential to compete globally in specialized manufacturing segments and reflects the rising international presence of Pakistani firms in the sports industry.