It would seem a given that efficiency-enhancing technologies spread rapidly, seeing as smoother production often leads to higher profits. Its origins as a hub of soccer ball-production date back to British colonial times, when Britons eager to play soccer grew impatient waiting for shipments of balls to arrive by sea. In 1889, a British sergeant asked a Sialkoti saddlemaker to repair his punctured soccer ball, and, pleased with the results, put in an order for a batch of balls to be made. Production took off from there: By 1982, Sialkot produced balls were used in the World Cup.
- Produced in Sialkot, Pakistan
- Local factories produces 40-60 million footballs a year
- 50-70% of the world’s total production
- About 200 factories are producing footballs
- Since 1970 Pakistan is supplying football for FIFA World Cup