In 2022, Indian leather and footwear exports to the WANA (Western Asia and North Africa) region saw a remarkable 20% increase, reflecting the growing demand for high-quality leather goods and footwear in these markets. This surge in exports highlights India’s expanding influence in the region, where affluent consumers and a growing middle class are fueling demand for both luxury and everyday footwear. The WANA region, which includes countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco, has become an important market for Indian exporters, due to its strategic position as a trade hub and its consumer appetite for fashionable, durable, and eco-friendly products.
The increase in exports can be attributed to several factors, including the Indian government’s proactive trade policies, such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which encourages domestic manufacturers to expand their production capacity and improve product quality. Additionally, the region’s increasing preference for sustainable products has benefitted India’s eco-friendly leather and footwear lines, which are made from biodegradable and recycled materials.
Furthermore, Indian manufacturers are capitalizing on innovative designs and competitive pricing, making Indian leather and footwear highly appealing to consumers in the WANA region. Trade agreements and improved diplomatic ties between India and WANA countries have also facilitated smoother trade flows, reduced tariffs, and promoted India as a reliable source of quality leather and footwear products.
As the demand for premium and sustainable footwear continues to rise in the WANA region, India’s leather and footwear industry is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory, further solidifying its role as a key exporter of leather goods to these growing markets.
