The 17th edition of the “Meet at Agra” Footwear Trade Fair, held from 7th to 9th November 2025 at the Agra Trade Centre and organized by the Agra Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Chamber (AFMEC), concluded with remarkable achievements and promising opportunities for the Indian footwear sector. The three-day event brought together domestic and international business leaders, industry experts, and aspiring entrepreneurs, creating a dynamic platform for growth and collaboration. Exhibitors showcased a wide range of products including leather, footwear components, chemicals & adhesives, technology, and machinery.
Mr. Vivek Sharma, IRS, Managing Director (MD), FDDI, was invited as the Chief Guest and formally felicitated by AFMEC. On this occasion, Mr. Gopal Gupta, President – AFMEC, Mr. Puran Dawar, Convenor – AFMEC, Chairman - Development Council for Footwear and Leather Industry, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, Mr. Pradeep Wasan, MD, Wasan Footwear, Mr. Rajiv Wasan, Director, AT Exports, Mr. Rakesh Sehgal, Director, OM Exports, Mr. Sunil Kumar Dwivedi, Executive Director, FDDI, Fursatganj and Members of Executive Committee, AFMEC were present.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Vivek Sharma, IRS, MD, FDDI highlighted that FDDI will complete 40 years next year, marking four decades of excellence in academics, consultancy, laboratory testing services, and international projects. He emphasized FDDI’s contribution in nurturing skilled professionals and technocrats for the footwear and allied sectors.
Mr. Sharma also announced that from 2026 onwards, FDDI will introduce new academic programmes focused on research, high-fashion footwear development, and entrepreneurship—initiatives aimed at boosting innovation, strengthening the footwear ecosystem, and enhancing employment opportunities.
FDDI, with its longstanding association with this event, once again marked a strong presence. Over the years, the Institute’s participation has included the involvement of senior management, representation from campuses such as Noida and Fursatganj, and displays of innovative collections. This year too, FDDI reaffirmed its commitment to industry advancement through B2C interactions, promotion of new technologies, and support for design-led innovation.
FDDI’s stall showcased a diverse range of creations including ladies’ and gents’ footwear, casual and formal shoes, sports footwear, fashion accessories, and leather goods such as travelware, belts, portfolios, handbags, and wallets. Information on FDDI’s laboratory services, training programmes, and consultancy offerings was shared through brochures, one-to-one meetings, and interactive discussions with industry participants.
The fair offered excellent business prospects and highlighted significant growth potential in Agra’s footwear cluster. It attracted a wide audience including manufacturers, global institutional buyers, designers, technicians, and government representatives—making it a highly successful and impactful event for all stakeholders.
