Event Scheduled for February 20-21 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi
The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) has announced the Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025, set to take place on February 20-21 at Yashobhoomi, ICC Dwarka, New Delhi. This premier business-to-business (B2B) event aims to provide a dynamic platform for manufacturers and exporters to showcase their latest innovations and collections to international buyers, reinforcing India’s position in the global leather market.
DILEX 2025 aligns with the government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, focusing on enhancing exports and generating employment. The event is expected to drive industry growth, facilitate global trade partnerships, and bolster India’s economic standing.
Government Support and Industry Reforms
The Indian government has implemented several policy measures to strengthen the leather industry. Effective February 2, 2025, the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on wet blue leather has been reduced from 10% to zero, addressing a long-standing industry demand. Additionally, the export duty on crust leather has been abolished, easing trade barriers for exporters.
A special package has been introduced to support manufacturing and exports, with a particular focus on the footwear sector. This initiative is projected to generate a turnover of ₹4 lakh crore, facilitate exports worth ₹1.1 lakh crore, and create 22 lakh jobs. Furthermore, the Focus Product Scheme aims to enhance productivity, quality, and competitiveness within the industry.
MSME and Financial Assistance Measures
To support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the investment and turnover classification limits have been revised, and credit guarantee coverage has been doubled to ₹10 crore. These measures are expected to unlock an additional ₹1.5 lakh crore in credit over the next five years.
The government has also introduced customized credit cards for micro-enterprises and financial support for SC/ST women entrepreneurs, promoting inclusive growth. In addition, an Export Promotion Mission is being launched with sectoral and ministerial targets. A unified trade platform, BharatTradeNet (BTN), will be established to streamline trade documentation and financing, enhancing ease of doing business in the export sector.
Industry Outlook and Growth Targets
CLE has set an ambitious target of $47 billion for the leather industry by 2030, with $13.7 billion earmarked for exports. Shri Rajendra Kumar Jalan, Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports, expressed optimism about the government’s proactive approach in addressing industry concerns.
“The reduction in duties and increased financial support for MSMEs will be instrumental in elevating India’s leather sector to global prominence. CLE remains committed to driving sustainable growth and competitiveness,” said Jalan.
Shri Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary, noted that the Union Budget 2025 has provided a significant boost to the leather and footwear sector by enhancing credit access, rationalizing duties, and sustaining key policy frameworks. The sector is poised for substantial expansion, supported by new export-oriented incentives and financial assistance.
With DILEX 2025, India’s leather industry is set to take a significant step towards strengthening its global footprint, attracting foreign investment, and fostering economic growth.
Source: PIB
