Taiwanese and Vietnamese companies are eager to invest in India’s non-leather footwear sector: CLE (Council for Leather Exports) Chairman RK Jalan announced on July 13, 2025, that Taiwanese and Vietnamese companies are expressing interest in investing in India’s non-leather footwear sector.
Taiwanese and Vietnamese companies are eager to invest in India’s non-leather footwear sector, requiring government support for smooth imports. The Council for Leather Exports aims for USD 7 billion in exports by 2026, with the US as a top destination.
Taiwanese and Vietnamese companies are eager to invest in India’s non-leather footwear sector, requiring government support for smooth imports. The Council for Leather Exports aims for USD 7 billion in exports by 2026, with the US as a top destination.
Collaboration with foreign firms and implementation of focused product schemes will boost productivity, competitiveness, and job creation.
Key points regarding this potential investment:
Non-leather footwear focus: The interest specifically targets the non-leather footwear segment in India.
Government support is crucial: These firms require government support, particularly to facilitate the smooth import of necessary components like shoe soles, molds, machinery, and fabrics, which are currently sourced from countries like China.
Growing Indian footwear market: India is the world’s second-largest footwear producer and consumer, with the footwear sector poised for substantial growth.
Government initiatives: India has launched programs like the Indian Footwear and Leather Development Programme (IFLDP) to boost infrastructure and provide incentives, including setting up clusters and promoting brands, .
Potential benefits for India: Such investments could lead to increased production, exports, and job creation in the Indian footwear sector.
Taiwanese investments already underway: Some Taiwanese companies have already invested in firms in Tamil Nadu, particularly in the non-leather footwear sector, bringing advanced technologies that could benefit domestic firms.
Opportunities in specific states: States like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar present opportunities for investment due to the availability of affordable labor.
CLE’s ambitious targets: The CLE aims to achieve USD 7 billion in footwear exports by 2025-26, fueled by an expected 18% growth this year.

