Leather industry seeks policy, infra makeover to reduce imports from China

The leather industry has made recommendations such as an image makeover, building clusters, a friendlier FDI policy, and ramping up of infrastructure to ensure a reduction in imports. At present, 30-40 per cent of leather goods, mostly shoes, are imported from China. 

PM Modi has recently named furniture, air conditioner, and leather sectors as priority ones in which imports could be reduced.

According to commerce ministry data, India imported leather and leather products worth $1.01 billion in FY20. Industry estimates half of it to be finished products; retailers are increasing imports from China.

Aqeel Panaruna, chairman of the Council for