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. A quantitative research design was adopted, utilizing structured surveys and semi-structured interviews. 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. 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. This study 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.