From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
As we reach the midpoint of 2026, it is encouraging to reflect on the momentum, resilience and innovation being demonstrated across South Africa’s footwear and leather sector. June has been a particularly active month, highlighting the industry’s commitment to skills development, market expansion, collaboration and inclusive growth. From empowering women through targeted skills development programmes and enhancing industry competitiveness through world-class training initiatives, to strengthening South Africa’s presence in key international markets such as Australia and Korea, our members continue to showcase the quality, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that define our sector.
What stands out most is the willingness of industry stakeholders to collaborate and embrace new opportunities. Whether through international trade exhibitions, consumer-facing events, strategic partnerships or industry dialogue platforms, businesses are actively positioning themselves for future growth while strengthening the competitiveness of the sector as a whole. As we look ahead to an exciting second half of the year, SAFLEC remains committed to supporting our members through market access, industry development and meaningful opportunities that drive sustainable growth both locally and internationally.
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
Table of Content
- SEDFA Webinar Empowers Brands Through Visual Storytelling
- Micro Export Program Empowers 10 South African Businesses for Global Growth
- Stepping into the Future: 3D Footwear Design Training Empowers Local Brands
- Collaborating for Market Insight: SAFLEC, SACTWU, and the German Chamber Explore Entry into Germany
- Trade Shows – October Highlights
- Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
- Calendar & Upcoming Events
- Social Media
Arsutoria Cape Town Workshop
June commenced with the successful Arsutoria Cape Town Workshop, held from 1–2 June 2026 and proudly sponsored by SAFLEC, SAFLIA, productivity SA/ILO and SAOEC. The internationally recognised programme brought together over 20 Delegates from the footwear and leather businesses from across the Western Cape, providing valuable insights into global fashion trends, product development, branding, merchandising, and future market opportunities.
The workshop equipped participants with practical tools to develop more competitive, market-driven product ranges while enhancing their understanding of international consumer preferences and emerging industry trends.
Key Outcomes
- 22 footwear and leather delegates benefited from the programme.
- Enhanced understanding of global footwear and leather trends.
- Improved product development, branding, and merchandising capabilities.
- Increased readiness to develop export-focused product ranges.
- Strengthened collaboration and networking within the industry.
Why This Matters
In a rapidly evolving global market, innovation and design are key drivers of success. Programmes such as Arsutoria ensure South African manufacturers remain competitive, informed, and well-positioned to seize future market opportunities both locally and internationally.
Empowering Women Through Skills Development
ILO Women’s Empowerment Handbag Manufacturing Programme
One of the most impactful initiatives delivered during June was the ILO Women’s Empowerment Handbag Manufacturing Programme, held in Durban from 1–5 June 2026 and fully funded by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Hosted by SAFLEC, the programme brought together 15 women who are survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), providing them with an opportunity to develop practical skills, rebuild confidence, and create pathways towards economic independence. The program was aimed at ensuring that we equip the woman with practical skills to support larger export manufactures for export ready handmade products. The scope noted that the export market is looking more and more for brands that support GBV victims as well as sustainable products, It was therefore important while supporting these vulnerable woman, that the goal was to ensure that the brands were equipped with the tools to support the global narrative in aim of increasing exports while supporting a great cause that appeals to the global market.
The initiative was designed to provide participants with practical skills and industry knowledge that can support future employment opportunities, enterprise development, and greater participation within the CTLF sector. Throughout the programme, participants received hands-on training and individual guidance while producing a range of quality handbag products.
The programme forms part of a broader commitment to creating opportunities for women who have experienced significant challenges, providing access to skills development, mentorship, and pathways for future economic participation.
Key Outcomes
- 15 women successfully completed the programme.
- Participants produced a range of quality, market-ready handbag products.
- Practical skills were developed across design, production, and entrepreneurship.
- Individual employment and enterprise development profiles were created.
- Participants were connected to ongoing industry support and development opportunities.
Why This Matters
Creating opportunities through skills development remains critical to building an inclusive and sustainable manufacturing sector. By investing in people and providing access to industry-relevant training, programmes such as this contribute towards economic participation, personal development, and the continued growth of South Africa’s footwear and leather industry.
Building Strategic Partnerships
Growth Coalition Programme with CDI
SAFLEC partnered with CDI to host a successful hybrid Growth Coalition Programme, bringing together manufacturers, industry leaders, government representatives, retailers, and support organisations from across the CTLF sector.
A key highlight of the programme was two expert panel discussions focused on issues critical to industry growth. The first explored policy, tariffs, and the enabling environment required to support competitiveness and export growth, while the second focused on compliance literacy, CMT formalisation, and strengthening industry sustainability. The discussions featured representatives from the dtic, Wesgro, the National Clothing Retail Federation, Productivity SA, and industry associations.
The event generated valuable industry dialogue, practical insights, and stronger collaboration across the CTLF value chain, reinforcing the importance of partnership in driving industry growth and competitiveness.
Key Outcomes
- Successful hybrid engagement with broad industry participation.
- Valuable discussions on policy, compliance, competitiveness, and market access.
- Strengthened collaboration between industry, government, and support organisations.
- Increased knowledge sharing to support future industry growth and sustainability.
Global Sourcing Australia
South Africa’s footwear and leather sector made a strong impression at the Global Sourcing Expo in Sydney, Australia, where ten companies showcased their products to an international audience of retailers, buyers, and sourcing professionals.
Amidst global headlines portraying South Africa as xenophobic, the exhibition stands remained busy throughout the show and attracted a steady stream of buyers. Encouragingly, buyer traffic was not affected by these narratives — in fact, this proved to be one of the busiest Australian shows South Africa has participated in to date. The constant engagement highlighted the resilience of the sector and reinforced confidence in the country’s export potential.
The positive interest received from buyers underscored the quality, craftsmanship, and innovation that continue to distinguish South African footwear, handbags, and leather goods in international markets. These exhibitions remain vital in positioning South Africa as a credible sourcing destination and in expanding its global footprint.
Key outcomes included:
- 10 South African companies participating in the exhibition.
- High buyer traffic sustained throughout the event.
- New connections established with buyers, retailers, and distributors.
- Valuable market intelligence gathered to support future export growth.
- Increased international exposure for South African brands.
This success demonstrates how international exhibitions create direct pathways to new markets, strengthen export readiness, and support sustainable industry growth through diversification.
Korea Import Fair.
South African manufacturers returned to the Korea Import Fair in Seoul for the second consecutive year, underscoring the growing importance of the Korean market for locally produced footwear, handbags, leather goods and lifestyle products. Ten South African companies participated in the exhibition, engaging directly with buyers, importers and industry stakeholders from across Korea.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) has identified Asian markets as a priority sector, and it is remarkable to note how exotic and niche products continue to perform strongly in these regions. Handmade items and manufacturers that actively push their brands excel in Korea, reflecting the appetite for distinctive, high‑quality goods.
Building on relationships established during SAFLEC’s inaugural participation in 2025, this year’s exhibition provided a valuable platform for continued market development, business engagement and increased visibility for South African brands. The strong buyer interest reinforced the sector’s ability to compete in Asia’s dynamic sourcing environment.
Comrades Expo 2026 – Turning Foot Traffic into Business Opportunities
International events in South Africa have become a key platform to push the Made in South Africa Brand. SAFLEC has been using multiple strategies to build the brand of “Made in SA” and one of the key platforms are these international events that draw an international consumer base and media. Leveraging on the international media to catapult the brand and breed familiarity of the brand with the Global audience.
SAFLEC members participated in the Comrades Expo 2026, leveraging one of South Africa’s largest consumer events to showcase their products and engage directly with thousands of visitors in the lead-up to race day.
The Expo provided members with a valuable opportunity to increase brand visibility, generate sales and gain direct feedback from consumers. With strong foot traffic throughout the event, exhibitors were able to introduce their products to a diverse audience while building brand awareness and expanding their customer base.
Why This Matters
- Consumer exhibitions provide a direct route to market for local manufacturers and brands.
- Immediate sales opportunities support business growth and sustainability.
- Direct engagement with consumers helps companies better understand market needs and preferences.
Upcoming Industry Activities
As the industry enters the second half of the year, several key initiatives and international engagements are planned to support market access, business development and industry growth.
Upcoming activities include:
- Shoe & Leather Vietnam (July 2026)
- New York Now
- ILM Germany
“Every opportunity creates a pathway for growth. By expanding market access, strengthening industry relationships and showcasing South African manufacturing excellence on the global stage, we continue to build a more competitive and sustainable future for our sector.”
Exciting new opportunities are on the horizon for our Western Cape members, with impactful programmes focused on industry growth, skills development, innovation, and market readiness set to launch soon. As we continue building a stronger, more competitive, and proudly South African footwear and leather sector, we encourage members to stay connected — big announcements and programme details are coming soon.
Not a SAFLEC member yet? The industry isn’t waiting—and neither should you. Get access to funding, exclusive trade missions, premium training, and more. Email prenisha@saflec.co.za to unlock the benefits.
Stay Connected Let’s keep flying the flag for South African craftsmanship together—follow us and be part of the story:
Let’s keep moving forward positively no matter the challenges.
Warm regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC