The enforcement of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is set to block the influx of low-quality, inexpensive leather products into India, offering a lifeline to the domestic footwear industry facing unfair competition. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, emphasized this during the inauguration of the 8th India International Footwear Fair today.
Shri Goyal highlighted that QCOs are a key step towards fostering a culture of quality among Indian manufacturers, helping the country evolve into a global leader in high-quality footwear production. The QCOs, effective from August 1, 2024, are expected to significantly benefit the leather and footwear sector.
Addressing the liberalization of QCO guidelines, Shri Goyal announced that retailers will have a two-year window to sell off their existing footwear stock after the order comes into effect. Additionally, the manufacturing of fashion footwear up to 72,000 pairs will be exempt from QCO requirements.
Underscoring the growth potential of the leather and footwear industry, Shri Goyal noted that the sector could potentially increase employment from the current 4 million to 10 million jobs. “We have a global market to capture, and we need self-confidence and openness to change,” he remarked.
Shri Goyal asserted that India is well on its way to becoming a world leader in the footwear market. Currently, India ranks as the second-largest manufacturer and the ninth-largest exporter of footwear globally.
The Union Minister also stated that the $50 billion export target by 2030 is achievable. He clarified that while QCOs do not apply to exports, exporters must still meet the quality standards set by their clients. Shri Goyal encouraged the industry to take full advantage of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), particularly with ASEAN and European nations, to elevate Indian brands on the global stage.
