India’s leather and footwear industry is set to experience remarkable growth, with projections indicating that the sector will reach an impressive $47 billion by 2030. This significant expansion is driven by a combination of increased domestic demand, rising export potential, and a growing global focus on sustainable products. India, already one of the world’s largest producers of leather and footwear, is positioning itself to capitalize on advances in technology, infrastructure development, and skilled labor to meet the rising demand for high-quality leather goods and footwear worldwide.
The industry’s growth is also fueled by the government’s supportive policies and investment initiatives, including the Footwear and Leather Products Policy 2022 and various FDI incentives aimed at attracting both domestic and international brands. With eco-friendly manufacturing and innovative production techniques becoming increasingly important, India is well-positioned to cater to the sustainable fashion and green technology trends gaining traction globally. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the Indian leather and footwear sector is expected to capitalize on ethical production and premium product offerings, strengthening its foothold in markets like Europe, North America, and Asia.
This projected growth will also translate into job creation, with millions of new positions expected in manufacturing, design, engineering, and supply chain management. Additionally, the expansion of India’s leather and footwear industry is set to drive further economic development across the country, particularly in regions like Tamil Nadu, which remains the industry’s primary hub. With its strategic initiatives, India is poised to become a leading global supplier of leather goods and footwear, contributing to the broader goals of economic growth, innovation, and sustainability.