According to figures released by the Brazilian Association of Footwear Manufacturers (Abicalçados), the country’s shoe exports fell 8% year-on-year in February to $178.7 million, compared with the same period in 2006. The volume of footwear exported also declined, falling 15% to 18 million pairs. This was in sharp contrast to the upward trend seen in exports in January.

Year-to-date exports fell 9% in terms of volume to 34.5 million pairs although, in terms of value, the sector reported a 2% increase in revenue at $346.4 million.