Over 250 exhibitors to participate, more than 25,000 visitors expected
Agra set to emerge as a global hub for footwear innovation and technology
Agra: The much-awaited three-day mega event of the footwear industry, “Meet at Agra 2025,” will be held from November 7 to 9, 2025, at the Agra Trade Centre, Singna village, NH-2, Agra. Organized by the Agra Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Chamber (AFMEC), the international trade fair will showcase the latest trends, innovations, and technologies from India and across the globe.
Addressing the media, AFMEC President Gopal Gupta said the fair, conceived nearly 19 years ago by Captain A.S. Rana, was initiated to strengthen the supply chain of India’s footwear industry. “What started as a small idea has now transformed into a large movement,” he remarked. Gupta also acknowledged the pivotal role of former AFMEC President Puran Dawar in taking the event to new heights.
“After a two-year pause due to the pandemic, we are organizing the 17th edition of Meet at Agra with renewed enthusiasm. The fair has now become not just a platform for networking but also a catalyst for redefining the direction of the footwear industry,” said Gupta.
He added that this year’s edition will feature participation from rating and factoring institutions to provide entrepreneurs with insights into financial schemes and opportunities. “A strong supply chain is the foundation of a strong manufacturer and exporter. Our vision aligns with the ‘Make in India’ mission — to produce locally what we currently import,” Gupta emphasized.
The event will also be inaugurated by Shri Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’, Minister for NRI and Investment Promotion, Government of Uttar Pradesh, on November 7.
Highlights and Opportunities
AFMEC President Gupta revealed that this year’s fair expects over 8,000 trade visitors and a total footfall of more than 25,000. “Agra’s footwear industry plays a crucial role in India’s growing economy. With the combined efforts of the government and trade organizations, the current $26 billion Indian footwear market can potentially reach $47 billion by 2030, driven largely by the rising demand for non-leather footwear like sports shoes, sneakers, and casual wear,” he noted.
Fair Committee Chairman Kulbir Singh said the event has now earned a place in the global footwear calendar, with participants and buyers from several countries eagerly anticipating it every year.
AFMEC Vice President Rajeev Vasan highlighted that a strong component industry is the backbone of quality footwear production. “This fair acts as a bridge between component manufacturers and footwear makers,” he said, adding that technical sessions will focus on design trends, manufacturing technology, and marketing strategies to help define the industry’s future direction.
AFMEC Vice President Rajesh Sehgal added, “India is now emerging as a strong alternative to China. Global giants like Tata, Reliance, Walmart, and Future Group are increasingly sourcing Indian products. This is our moment to match global quality standards.”
AFMEC General Secretary Pradeep Vasan pointed out that India currently accounts for 13% of global footwear production, but only 2.2% of exports. “There’s immense scope for growth in both production and exports through joint efforts of the government and entrepreneurs,” he said.
AFMEC Secretary Anirudh Tiwari noted that per capita spending on footwear in India is still low — around ₹1,500 annually — compared to the global average. He suggested that custom duties on footwear priced below $3 should be raised to 35%, and local producers should be provided incentives such as a minimum support price to strengthen the domestic industry.
The event was also attended by Lalit Arora, IFFCOMA General Secretary Deepak Manchanda, The Shoe Factors Federation President Vijay Sama, Vijay Nijhawan, Renuka Dang, Nakul Manchanda, Arpit Grover, and Dilip Raina, among other leading figures from the industry.
