Sneaker Revolution: India’s Footwear Industry Is Hitting Its Stride
In an exciting development for the footwear industry, Taiwan’s Hong Fu Industrial Group, the world’s second-largest trainer manufacturer, is investing significantly in India. Currently constructing a massive plant in Panapakkam, Tamil Nadu, this facility is set to produce 25 million pairs of shoes annually and create jobs for 25,000 workers. The move comes as Hong Fu seeks new markets amid a saturated international landscape, capitalizing on the sharp rise in demand for non-leather footwear in India, which is believed to possess tremendous potential.
The Indian government is actively promoting this influx of investment, aiming to enhance industry standards and increase exports. Recent regulations introduced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) aim to stamp out low-quality products by requiring shoes to meet new strength and flexibility criteria. Industry expert Sandeep Sharma emphasizes that these changes aim to improve consumer choice while avoiding the economic fallout of disrupting the unorganised sector, which provides affordable footwear to many Indians, especially in rural areas.
Small producers like Ashok, who operate in Agra’s unorganised sector, contribute significantly to the market. He reveals that 200,000 pairs of shoes are manufactured daily by local creators, providing cheaper options compared to branded footwear. However, the introduction of government standards could challenge these small businesses, as they will need to find ways to adapt without losing their livelihood. Sharma notes that a careful balance is being sought, seeking both quality improvements and support for small manufacturers.
In addition to existing players, new Indian brands are emerging, targeting a growing middle class. Companies like Zen Barefoot focus on innovative products such as barefoot shoes, which prioritize healthy movement. Others, like Comet, represent a shift toward self-sufficiency in production. By overseeing everything from design to manufacturing, they are able to develop unique products tailored for Indian climate and terrain.
Despite the impending changes, Ashok and others in the unorganised sector hope for government recognition and support. The sentiment remains that while major brands may dominate, the smaller players can thrive by carving out niches in the evolving market. With robust developments on the horizon, the Indian footwear sector is poised for significant transformation, promising a dynamic landscape in the years to come.