New Delhi: The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) has established an ambitious target of $47 billion by 2030, with $13.7 billion earmarked specifically for the export sector, as stated by Rajendra Kumar Jalan, Chairman of the Council.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has announced that the Council for Leather Exports (CLE) will host the Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025 on February 20-21 at Yashobhoomi, ICC Dwarka, New Delhi.
DILEX serves as a premier B2B platform, enabling manufacturers and exporters to present their latest collections, innovations, and capabilities to international buyers in search of reliable sourcing options.
In alignment with the "Make in India" and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, DILEX 2025 aims to boost exports, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen India's position in global markets.
The government has introduced various reforms to enhance trade and industry. Notably, the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on wet blue leather has been reduced from 10% to zero, effective February 2, 2025, addressing a significant demand from the industry, while the export duty on crust leather has been abolished.
Furthermore, a Special Package has been launched to bolster manufacturing and exports, particularly in the footwear sector, alongside a Focus Product Scheme designed to enhance productivity, quality, and competitiveness, targeting a turnover of Rs4 lakh crore and exports of Rs1.1 lakh crore, while creating 22 lakh jobs.
To assist MSMEs, the limits for investment and turnover classification have been raised, and credit guarantee coverage for micro and small enterprises has been increased to Rs10 crore, unlocking an additional Rs1.5 lakh crore in credit over the next five years.
Custom financial assistance measures, including tailored credit cards for micro-enterprises and support for SC/ST women entrepreneurs, will further foster inclusive growth.
An Export Promotion Mission will be initiated with specific sectoral and ministerial objectives, while BharatTradeNet (BTN), a comprehensive platform for trade documentation and financing, will be created to facilitate international trade.
The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) extends its appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry for their steadfast support of the leather industry. CLE is committed to advancing industry growth, generating employment opportunities, and enhancing India's presence in global trade.
The budget announcement arrives at a crucial time for India's leather and footwear sector, which is swiftly transforming into a global manufacturing and sourcing center under the ambitious "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives.
"The government's proactive approach to addressing industry challenges—especially through duty reductions and financial assistance for MSMEs—will be vital in propelling India's leather sector to international prominence. CLE is dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and enhancing global competitiveness," stated Rajendra K Jalan.
"The Union Budget 2025 has provided a significant uplift to the leather and footwear industry by improving access to credit, rationalizing duties, and upholding essential policy frameworks. With the introduction of a special package and export-oriented incentives, the industry is set for substantial growth," remarked Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary.
