Delhi International Leather Expo Launches with Participation from Buyers Across 52 Nations
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Synopsis
The Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) has commenced in New Delhi, featuring participation from buyers from 52 nations. This event signifies India's aim to become a key player in the global leather market with a target of $7 billion in exports by FY 2025-26.
Key Takeaways
- Participation from 52 countries
- Ambitious export target of $7 billion
- Over 225 Indian exhibitors
- Expanded exhibition area of 8,000 square meters
- Direct engagement through reverse buyer-seller meetings
New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) The Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) commenced its activities here on Thursday, attracting foreign buyers from around 52 countries, showcasing India's rising status as a 'China Plus One' sourcing alternative. The government has set an ambitious export goal of $7 billion for the leather sector by FY 2025-26.
This significant event is anticipated to bolster India's role in the global leather and footwear market as the nation strives to rank among the top five leather exporters worldwide.
The 6th edition of DILEX features an increased number of participants, with approximately 225 Indian exhibitors displaying their latest products across an 8,000-square-meter exhibition space, marking a considerable growth from the last edition.
The expo's international outreach has expanded as well, with over 200 foreign buyers from nearly 52 countries, including major European and US markets, compared to around 130 buyers in the previous year.
The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) is hosting the 6th Edition of DILEX – Reverse Buyer Seller Meet (RBSM) from February 20-21 at the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC), Yashobhoomi in Dwarka, New Delhi, supported financially by the Government of India under the Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme.
Over 500 representatives from Indian buying houses, retailers, and trade buyers are present, creating ample networking opportunities.
During the opening ceremony, Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary of the Department of Commerce, emphasized that the event represents a considerable achievement in India's global trade journey. He highlighted that in the post-COVID recovery phase, the Indian leather and footwear sector has shown remarkable resilience by boosting exports and gearing up to meet its ambitious targets.
He noted that with the government's initiatives, including import duty exemptions on wet blue leather and improved credit guarantees for MSMEs, India is strategically positioned to benefit from emerging global trends, particularly in response to geopolitical changes and new market access opportunities, such as tariff adjustments and the 'China Plus One' demand.
RK Jalan, Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports, stated at the inauguration of DILEX 2025, "The 6th Edition of the Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025 opens avenues for the global leather and footwear sector amid a shifting geopolitical climate. As the world rebounds from the pandemic and navigates disruptions like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and changing trade policies, India's leather industry has displayed remarkable resilience, achieving consistent growth. With a promising outlook, we aim to meet the Department of Commerce's $7 billion export target and secure India's place among the top five global exporters by FY 2025-26.
As India broadens its presence in the global footwear and leather market, DILEX 2025 serves as a vital platform for promoting international trade and collaboration. The event facilitates direct business meetings, allowing manufacturers and exporters to interact closely with global buyers, thus exploring effective sourcing options, as per a statement from the Commerce Ministry.
The statement further noted that India’s leather and footwear industry has showcased exceptional resilience by enhancing exports, positioning the country to meet its ambitious targets.
