The one city making 70% of the world's footballs

Sialkot, Pakistan produces most of the world’s footballs, but only a select group of manufacturers hold FIFA licenses. To earn certification, factories must pass a series of demanding performance tests and pay high licensing fees. We visited Bola Gema to see what it takes to meet FIFA standards, and why manufacturers are willing to invest for a chance to cash in on World Cup demand.

Sialkot, Pakistan produces most of the world’s footballs, but only a select group of manufacturers hold FIFA licenses. To earn certification, factories must pass a series of demanding performance tests and pay high licensing fees. We visited Bola Gema to see what it takes to meet FIFA standards, and why manufacturers are willing to invest for a chance to cash in on World Cup demand.