【Agra, Uttar 】UP: Winds of Change in Agra’s Footwear Industry…Hub for Synthetic Shoes to be Established, Exports to Gulf Countries Planned

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Editor’s Note

This article highlights a strategic pivot within Agra’s historic footwear industry, as local entrepreneurs adapt to shifting global demand by increasing production of non-leather footwear. This shift leverages existing skilled artisans and infrastructure, aiming to boost exports and create new jobs.

Agra to Become Hub for Synthetic Leather Shoes Exports to Gulf Countries Planned
Agra’s Footwear Industry Sees Winds of Change

Entrepreneurs in Agra have recognized the changing trends in the footwear industry. They will now increase the production of non-leather shoes and sandals instead of leather ones. A key point is that this does not require new setups or additional employees. In the same factories, traditional artisans will manufacture non-leather shoes and sandals. There is demand for synthetic leather footwear in Gulf countries. Consequently, increased exports will generate employment for youth and revenue for the government.

“Agra has 125 footwear exporters. These exporters currently only manufacture leather shoes.”

Gopal Gupta, President of the Agra Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Chamber (AFMEC), explained that during the three-day ‘Meet at Agra’ event, 8,390 entrepreneurs from India and abroad participated. They shared insights on the changing global footwear market and demands. The demand for synthetic shoes and sandals has increased rapidly in many countries. In fact, nearly 90 percent of people wear shoes and sandals made from non-leather, i.e., synthetic leather. Therefore, consensus has been reached to rapidly initiate the manufacturing of synthetic leather shoes in Agra. Increased production will boost employment, income, and revenue. The highest demand for these is in Gulf countries, where they will be exported.

Will Also Export Synthetic Shoes
“Until now, only leather shoes have been exported from Agra. There is domestic trade in synthetic shoes. The demand for synthetic shoes has grown rapidly worldwide. Therefore, we will now increase the manufacturing of synthetic shoes in Agra and also export them.”

Pradeep Vasan, General Secretary of AFMEC, stated this.

Synthetic Shoes are Cheaper to Produce than Leather
“Synthetic leather is being used in 80-90 percent of shoes. It is particularly popular among youth. It costs about one-third the price compared to leather. Therefore, entrepreneurs are also focusing on manufacturing shoes from synthetic leather. This will increase employment opportunities in Agra as production rises.”

Former AFMEC President Captain Ajit Singh Rana shared this insight.

Expecting Business to Grow One and a Half Times from 3800 Crore

Footwear exports from India amount to 40 thousand crore rupees. Uttar Pradesh’s share in this is 13 thousand crore rupees. Out of this, exports from Agra are worth 5000 crore rupees. Annually, 2.54 crore pairs of shoes are being manufactured here. Increasing the production of synthetic shoes is expected to raise demand by about one and a half times. Exporting them will also increase Agra’s share in the market.

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⏰ Published on: November 11, 2025