Ateequr Rahman, Chairman, Indian Fine Leather Manufacturers and Exporters Association, at a press conference, in Chennai
| Photo Credit:
BIJOY GHOSH
The India-European Union Free Trade Agreement has the potential to increase exports of leather goods, including footwear and apparels, to the EU by around 20 per cent, said Ateequr Rahman, Chairman, Indian Fine Leather Manufacturers and Exporters Association.
Out of the $3 billion exports of leather goods between April and November 2025, exports to the EU were around 40 per cent and to the US around 22 per cent, he told newspersons while announcing the association’s plans to host the Leather Fashion Show to be held in Chennai on February 1. On February 2, a Brand Symposium, an B2B event, will also be hosted, he said.
Challenging time
Rahman said the industry is going through a challenging time due to international tariff and a slowdown in Europe. However, the early implementation of FTA will give a boost to exports, he said.
On the fashion show, Rahman said it would focus the leather industry’s attention on the latest expressions of styles and designs in global leather fashion. It also provides a critical platform for global brands and international buying houses to witness the latest design and innovative designs from India’s leather industry.
The show will feature 14 major leather product producers from across India, demonstrating the industry’s capabilities in both ovine and bovine leather categories. Participants will display a range of products, including premium footwear, designer leather garments, luxury handbags and exclusive leather accessories, said KR Vijayan, Convenor of the Fashion Show.
Published on January 29, 2026
