• Over 200 exhibitors from more than 35 countries will participate
• The global footwear market will be showcased under one roof at the Agra Trade Centre
Agra. The preparations for the 16th edition of Leather, Footwear Components & Technology Fair “Meet at Agra,” renowned as the Mahakumbh of the footwear industry, have been finalized. This international trade fair will take place from November 8 to 10, 2024, at the Agra Trade Centre, organized by the Agra Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Chamber (AFMEC).
At a press conference held on Monday at the Lemon Tree Hotel on the bypass road, AFMEC President Puran Dawar shared details about the fair. He noted that over the past one and a half decades, this event has established a special identity not just in India but worldwide. This year, more than 200 exhibitors from over 35 countries will participate. The fair is expected to attract around 6,000 trade visitors and over 20,000 footfalls. He emphasized that Agra’s footwear industry plays a crucial role in driving India’s growing economy. Such events help strengthen the economy, and he projected that India’s current $26 billion footwear market could reach $47 billion by 2030, primarily due to increasing demand for non-leather shoes like sports shoes, running shoes, casual wear, and sneakers.
Gopal Gupta, Chairman of the Fair Organizing Committee, expressed that it is a matter of joy for Agra’s footwear businesses that “Meet at Agra,” recognized in the World Footwear Calendar, is eagerly awaited by entrepreneurs from not just India but over 35 countries. He highlighted that this year’s event would be special in many ways, showcasing new technologies, innovations, and national-international market trends—addressing every necessary question related to business growth in the footwear industry under one roof.
Captain A.S. Rana Convener of AFMEC, stated that India is now positioned as a strong alternative to China. He noted that major companies like Tata, Reliance, Walmart, and Future Group have completely ceased imports from China and are now reliant on Indian products. This has led to continuous growth in the domestic market. He emphasized the need to develop product quality with a focus on the global market.
Technical Sessions to Showcase the Present and Future of the Footwear Industry
Rajiv Wasan, General Secretary of AFMEC, mentioned that a strong footwear component industry is essential for producing quality footwear. He indicated that the fair would serve as a bridge to encourage the component industry and manufacturers. Technical sessions will be conducted, where experts will provide lectures on various topics, including design trends, manufacturing techniques, and marketing strategies. Importantly, these sessions will showcase the current and future landscape of the footwear industry, helping businesses determine their future direction.
Per Capita Spending on Footwear in India is Low Compared to Other Countries
Lalit Arora, Secretary of AFMEC, pointed out that per capita spending on footwear in India is significantly low, averaging around ₹1,500, which is much less than in other global markets. He also noted that leather shoes dominate approximately 70% of the Indian market. About 4.5 million people are employed in this industry, with over 40% being women.
He stressed the need to curb cheap imports. India imports footwear in large quantities from China and other countries. He advocated that customs duty on shoes priced below $3 should be raised to 35%, and domestic producers should receive the benefit of a minimum support price. Such measures would benefit Indian producers. The footwear segment in India is already expanding rapidly, and events like these play a significant role in advancing the industry’s development.
The Event is Proving to be a Game Changer for the Industry
FAFM President Kuldeep Singh noted that year after year, this event has proven to be a game changer for the industry. The fair serves as a platform for showcasing networking and business opportunities for various entrepreneurs in the footwear sector. It will display a wide range of products and services related to footwear, including machinery, footwear components, synthetic materials, and more.
Leveraging Production and Export Capacity
Pradeep Wasan from AFMEC stated that India accounts for 13% of the global total production and approximately 2.2% of global exports. According to the GTRI, there is ample potential in India not only to increase production but also to enhance exports. With mutual collaboration between the government and entrepreneurs, this opportunity can be effectively utilized.
Mainly present
On this occasion, Sudhir Gupta of FMEC, Anirudh Tiwari, FAFM President Kuldeep Kohli, General Secretary Nakul Manchanda, Romi Magan, AASMA President Upendra Singh Lovely etc. were especially present.
