India - Minister pushes for leather and footwear job increases
Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, stated that India's leather and footwear industry could increase employment from 4 million to 10 million jobs.
Speaking at the 8th India International Footwear Fair in New Delhi, Mr Goyal noted the sector's potential for both domestic and international expansion, urging the industry to embrace change and quality improvement.
He discussed the implementation of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) to curb low-cost imports and protect the Indian industry. He also announced that retailers would have two years to clear existing stock under new regulations, with certain fashion footwear exempted.
Mr Goyal expressed confidence in India's potential to lead the global footwear market, currently being the second-largest manufacturer. He set a target of $50 billion in exports by 2030 and encouraged leveraging Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to expand Indian brands internationally.
