Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, announced QCOs to curb substandard imports, boost India’s footwear exports, and create 1 crore jobs.
The Indian government is set to enforce Quality Control Orders (QCOs) on leather and footwear imports, a move aimed at curbing the influx of substandard products and strengthening the domestic industry. The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, made this announcement while inaugurating the 8th India International Footwear Fair.
Goyal emphasised that the implementation of QCOs from August 1, 2024, is crucial in fostering a culture of quality among domestic manufacturers. This initiative is expected to enhance India’s position as a world-class manufacturer of footwear, reducing unfair competition from low-cost imports.
In a significant concession, the Minister announced that retailers would have a two-year window to clear existing footwear stock post-QCO implementation. Additionally, manufacturers of fashion footwear producing up to 72,000 pairs will be exempt from the QCOs.
Highlighting the sector’s potential, Goyal stated that the leather and footwear industry could see a substantial rise in employment—from the current 40 lakh jobs to 1 crore. He urged the industry to be ambitious, embrace change, and aim for global leadership in the market.
Currently the world’s second-largest footwear manufacturer and ninth-largest exporter, India is eyeing a target of $50 billion in exports by 2030—a goal Goyal believes is within reach. Although QCOs won’t apply to exports, the minister encouraged manufacturers to meet the quality standards required by international clients.
Goyal also encouraged the industry to capitalise on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), particularly with ASEAN and European countries, to elevate Indian brands to a global stage.
