Photo by Lu Hua

On July 9, 2024, the 41st International Footwear Conference (IFC), an official event of the Confederation of International Footwear Associations (CIFA), was convened in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This annual gathering is held annually in rotation among member countries or regions, facilitating global exchange within the footwear industry. Hosted by the Vietnam Leather, Footwear, and Handbag Association (LEFASO), the conference brought together industry associations and footwear enterprises from 16 countries and regions, including Chinese mainland, Vietnam, India, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Myanmar, Turkey, South Africa, as well as Hong Kong region and Taiwan region。

Among the Chinese mainland delegates were Chen Zhanguang, Vice Chairman of the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA); Liu Suilong, Vice Chairman of CLIA and Chairman of the Guangdong Footwear Manufacturers Association; Lu Hua, Deputy Secretary-General of CLIA; and Chen Xiaomin, President of the Guangzhou Footwear Chamber of Commerce.

During the conference, Vietnam's Minister of Industry and Trade delivered a speech, while a renowned Vietnamese economist analyzed the macroeconomic situation. Representatives from CIFA member countries and regions were divided into four groups to present updates on the footwear sector in their respective countries and regions. Chen Zhanguang, the Vice Chairman of CLIA, highlighted China's footwear industry advantages, collaboration opportunities, industrial policies, key development areas and clusters, and updates on All China Leather Exhibition (ACLE) and the 2025 'Moda China' International Footwear, Bags & Garments Fashion Fair. Mr. Chen also participated in the panel discussion.

The CIFA Board of Directors meeting was convened during the conference, with CIFA bylaw reviewed, the annual financial report and other related issues approved. Delegates were all invited to attend the opening ceremony of the 24th International Shoes & Leather Exhibition - Vietnam (Shoes & Leather - Vietnam 2024) and visit the exhibition.

The 42nd IFC is scheduled to take place in Malaysia in 2025.

This article has been translated from the original Chinese by Zhang Yajie.