Taiwan-Vietnam companies want to invest, UP-Bihar has immense opportunities; US is the first choice in exports

Companies from Taiwan and Vietnam want to invest in India's non-leather footwear sector. RK Jalan, Chairman of the Leather Export Council (CLE), said on Sunday, "Government support is very important to facilitate the investment of companies from these countries, so that they can easily import these items into the country for their manufacturing facilities." He said, both these countries are major players in the global footwear sector. Vietnam is a major global hub for the manufacture and export of footwear. Taiwan plays an important role in the design, development, and production of footwear for major international brands.

Jalan said, the government should launch the focused product scheme for footwear and leather sectors announced in the budget to increase productivity, competitiveness, and exports. This scheme will support the design capacity, component manufacturing, and machinery required for the production of non-leather quality footwear.

Yadvendra Singh Sachan, Managing Director of Kanpur-based Gromor International, said, Taiwanese companies have already invested in units in Tamil Nadu. They have the best technology for making footwear. There are significant investment opportunities in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, as affordable labor is available in these states.

Jalan said, the country's exports are growing at a good rate, and the Council is targeting exports worth seven billion dollars in 2025-26. Exports stood at $5.75 billion in 2024-25. The US remained the top destination for Indian exporters with exports worth $957 million (20 percent share). It is followed by Britain (11 percent) and Germany. He said, exports are expected to grow by about 18 percent this year.

Jalan said, the country's exports are growing at a good rate, and the council is targeting exports worth seven billion dollars in 2025-26. Exports stood at $5.75 billion in 2024-25. The US remained the top destination for Indian exporters with exports worth $957 million (20 percent share). It is followed by Britain (11 percent) and Germany. He said, exports are expected to grow by about 18 percent this year.