From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
Stepping Forward Together
Dear Members…. My oh my!!!! With all our perfect imperfections, challenges and opportunities …. Has this year has tested us and tested us indeed. BUT yes BUT it’s also shown the incredible resilience and potential of the South African footwear and leather industry. Well done for making it to the end of 2024. Every challenge has been a chance to rethink, reimagine, and reinvent.
As we close out the year and put our feet up ……let’s focus on the possibilities that lie ahead. It’s not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about stepping boldly into new opportunities, harnessing our creativity, and setting the pace for innovation and excellence.
Together, let us shape a future where South African craftsmanship and ingenuity shine on the global stage. Let’s walk confidently into the new year, ready to build, grow, and lead! If we survived this far with all we have had to endure!!!! We CAN do it!!!
Happy Holidays members, stay safe, spend quality time with family and friends and see you all in 2025
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
Table of Content
- Topic 1: WORLD NEWS (AS PER WORLD FOOTWEAR NEWS and FN PLATFORM)
- Topic 2: South African Craftsmanship at Middle East Leather World and Australian Footwear & Leather Show
- Topic 3: Maintaining South Africa’s Presence on the Global Stage
- IF YOU ARE NOT A SAFLEC MEMBER YOU ARE LOSING OPPORTUNITIES!!!
- SOCIAL MEDIA
- UPCOMING EVENTS
Topic 1:
WORLD NEWS (AS PER WORLD FOOTWEAR NEWS)
Sergio Dulio: All UITIC gatherings are unforgettable, but the next congress will set new standards
As the footwear industry faces challenges and opportunities related to global competitiveness, sustainability and artificial intelligence (AI), the 22nd UITIC Congress, which will feature factory tours on the last day of August 2025, followed by the indoor conference on the first days of September, in Shanghai, China, will set the stage for transformative discussions.
The year 2025 will mark 12 years since the last UITIC Congress in China. The “China Leather Industry Association (CLIA) had already expressed its intention to host the forthcoming Congress after the edition in Porto in 2018, but the pandemic hit, and UITIC had to interrupt its regular cadence of congresses every two years until the last gathering in Milan 2023. However, at the last gathering in Milan, when CLIA confirmed its intention to organise the 22nd edition of the Congress, it was a natural and very welcome choice“, Dulio explains.
The decision also underscores China’s pivotal role in the global footwear landscape. The country’s rapid development, particularly in manufacturing technologies across all industries, including footwear, provides a unique opportunity to revisit and compare advancements since the last Congress in 2013.
Topic 2:
South African Craftsmanship at Middle East Leather World and Australian Footwear & Leather Show
South African companies proudly displayed their expertise and creativity at Middle East Leather World and the Australian Footwear & Leather Show, underscoring the country’s ability to blend cultural richness with global appeal. These platforms allowed exhibitors to engage with international buyers and understand shifting consumer preferences in the wake of COVID-19.
At Middle East Leather World, premium leather products reflecting sustainability and craftsmanship stood out to buyers looking for unique offerings. Similarly, the Australian Footwear & Leather Show highlighted South Africa’s niche, bespoke designs, showcasing the adaptability and innovation of our industry.
While these events generated valuable leads, we recognize that rebuilding our export footprint in these markets will take time. Post-COVID consumer behavior continues to evolve, and we remain committed to aligning our strategies to meet these changing demands. As we steadily re-grow our presence, South African companies are poised to deliver world-class products while celebrating their cultural heritage. With patience and perseverance, the path to sustained growth is clear.
Topic 3:
Maintaining South Africa’s Presence on the Global Stage
Budget constraints have required a strategic shift in how South Africa participates in APLF and the Korea Trade Event and had to be restructured, reducing our presence from 10 individual exhibitors to a single stand, through EMIA funding. A sad reality but we must make it work nevertheless.
While these adjustments are challenging, maintaining a presence at these key global platforms is non-negotiable. Without consistent representation, the efforts to promote “Made in South Africa” a potential brand to international buyer’s risk losing momentum. It takes years to build brand presence. And all our hard work it set to yield success in the future. It took Turkey years and over a decade to grow its exports. And it’s a much larger industry.
Trade events are critical for reinforcing South Africa’s position in the global footwear and leather goods market, building relationships, and ensuring our industry remains competitive. Adapting to these financial limitations is vital to safeguarding the progress made in showcasing South African craftsmanship to the world. The motto is ….” make a plan when times are tough!!!”
IF YOU ARE NOT A SAFLEC MEMBER YOU ARE LOSING OPPORTUNITIES!!!
Join SAFLEC and unlock a world of opportunities in the South African footwear and leather industry. As a member, gain access to vital resources, exclusive events, and networking platforms. With SAFLEC, seize the chance to expand into global markets through funding and support initiatives. Experience the thrill of collaborating with industry leaders, staying ahead of trends, and shaping the future of our craft. Do not just witness the excitement—be a vital part of it. Elevate your career and impact by becoming a member of SAFLEC today! Contact prenisha@saflec.co.za
SOCIAL MEDIA
UPCOMING EVENTS
Seda Collab – Unlocking Global Trade Portals
30 October 2024
Dubai Leather World
November 2024
Australia
November 2024
CIIE China
November 2024 (dtic National Pavilion)
As we move forward, we recognize the importance of re-learning and adapting to global needs, demands, and challenges while embracing new strategies to thrive in the post-COVID era.
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
