The development of the shoe industry in Guangdong needs a transformation and upgrading
2025-10-06 08:41:52
The 24th Guangzhou International Footwear and Leather Fair is set to take place from May 28 to May 30 this year at the Guangzhou China Import and Export Fair Complex. Organizers have announced that over 2,600 booths will be available, with more than 1,300 exhibitors participating. This marks a 10% increase in both the number of booths and exhibitors compared to the previous event. The exhibition space will exceed 63,000 square meters, drawing an expected attendance of around 50,000 visitors. The expanding scale of the fair reflects the steady growth of China's footwear market, which continues to attract global attention.
Guangdong Province remains the heart of China’s footwear industry, producing over half of the nation's total output. With more than 8,000 shoe companies operating in the region, Guangdong produces approximately 5 billion pairs of shoes annually—about one-third of the world’s total production. As the largest footwear manufacturing and trading hub in China, it plays a crucial role in shaping the global market.
The Guangzhou West Railway Station area, known as the "Shoe City," is home to dozens of professional footwear markets and over 10,000 brands. It is estimated that one out of every three pairs of shoes worldwide comes from this bustling district. The area has not only become a major wholesale hub but also a key center for imported footwear products. Over the past two decades, it has created thousands of millionaires and even hundreds of billionaires, solidifying its reputation as a thriving economic powerhouse.
Industry experts highlight that while the sector has seen remarkable growth, challenges such as rising costs, competition, and shifting consumer demands have pushed Guangdong’s footwear industry toward transformation and upgrading. Many small and medium-sized enterprises have struggled due to declining foreign orders, prompting a need for innovation and brand development.
Branding has emerged as a key strategy for long-term success. Companies are now focusing on building strong, recognizable brands to add value and differentiate themselves in the market. According to industry insiders, the number of self-owned brands in Guangdong is growing rapidly, with many new brands emerging each year. Experts predict that within the next five years, the number of branded footwear companies will see exponential growth.
Despite these challenges, the Chinese footwear market is expected to continue its upward trend. In 2014, the industry's total output reached 700 billion yuan, reflecting a 7% increase from the previous year. Industry leaders remain optimistic about the future, citing stable economic growth and increasing consumer confidence as key drivers of demand.
With the global economy showing signs of recovery, the Chinese market remains a top priority for international investors. The Guangzhou International Footwear and Leather Fair serves as a vital platform for showcasing innovations, connecting buyers and sellers, and promoting sustainable growth in the sector. As the industry evolves, the focus on quality, branding, and global expansion is set to define the next chapter of China’s footwear story.
Heilongjiang Junhe Building Materials Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.junhejiancai.com