The Brazilian footwear industry has had a positive start to the year. According to figures released by Abicalçados, the Brazilian Association of Footwear Manufacturers, footwear exports increased 13% to $269 million in January and February. In February alone they increased 18% to $142 million.

The Brazilian leather industry has a target to increase exports by 21% to $1.7 billion in 2003 and by a further 11% to $ 1.9 billion in 2004. In order to hit this target, footwear manufacturers and exporters say the number of Brazilian exporters must increase from 980 to 1,180 by the end of 2004.

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