From the editor
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) marks a transformative milestone for India’s leather and footwear industry, heralding a new era of growth, global competitiveness, and job creation. This agreement eliminates import duties for the sector (in the range of 2% to 8% for leather goods, 4.5% for leather footwear and 11.9% for non leather footwear), unlocking unprecedented opportunities for Indian manufacturers, artisans, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), by creating a level playing field against competitors like Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Vietnam, which enjoyed preferential access.
The tariff elimination is expected to drive India’s leather and footwear exports to the UK to USD 1 billion within three years, from a value of USD 494 million in 2024. All Key manufacturing hubs in the country are poised to benefit significantly, fostering all around economic growth and employment. The anticipated surge in export demand will create thousands of jobs, particularly for MSMES, boosting local economies and empowering artisans, women entrepreneurs, and youth-led enterprises.
The agreement also streamlines customs procedures, simplifies technical standards, and provides protection for Geographical Indications (GI), enabling Indian products like Kolhapuri footwear and Mojari etc., to stand out in the UK’s USD 8.7 billion leather and footwear market. Additionally, the CETA encourages sustainable production practices and the adoption of digital tools, empowering MSMEs to enhance sustainability and efficiency, embrace e-commerce, and integrate into global value chains.
By facilitating duty-free access and streamlined regulations, the CETA enables Indian manufacturers to integrate into global supply chains, enhancing their pricing power and visibility. This is particularly significant for high-quality fashion and leather products, which are in strong demand in the UK.
Considering the huge opportunities to significantly enhance our exports to UK, CLE in association with High Commission of India organised the second edition of India Footwear & Leather Products Show in London during 15th and 16th October 2025 in which 27 companies participated. During this visit, CLE and High Commission of India in UK organised the business event titled “Unlocking New Horizons – Celebrating India -UK CETA for Footwear & Leather Trade” on 14.10.25 at the High Commission in London. In this event ,His Excellency Indian High Commissioner to UK Shri Vikram K. Doraisami delivered key note address. I had the opportunity to make a presentation on sourcing and investment opportunities & benefits of India UK CETA. Ms. Nidhi Mani Tripathi, Minister (Economic), High Commission of India & Shri Motilal Sethi, Member, COA, CLE spoke. An MOU was signed between Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited & Accademia IUAD, Italy.
With best wishes
Selvam
Executive Director
COUNCIL FOR LEATHER EXPORTS