The Indonesian leather and footwear industry is preparing to step onto the world stage in grand fashion as the Indo Leather & Footwear (ILF) Expo 2025 returns for its 18th edition, promising to be the largest and most internationally diverse yet. Scheduled from August 14 to 16, 2025, in Jakarta, the expo is set to showcase the nation’s growing prowess in leather, footwear, textiles, and ready-to-wear garments—industries that have recently recorded remarkable export growth and global recognition.
According to the Ministry of Industry, Indonesia’s footwear exports soared to $1.89 billion in the first quarter of 2025, a 13.80% increase from the same period last year. This impressive leap has secured Indonesia the sixth spot among the world’s largest footwear exporters, commanding a 3.99% share of the global market. The United States remains the primary destination for Indonesian footwear and garments, while European markets—particularly Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium—dominate in leather goods. In Asia, Japan, China, and South Korea are strategic partners for textiles and fashion exports.
“Indonesia’s shoe and leather industry continues to show positive development. Our products are not only accepted but also recognized globally,” declared Daud D. Salim, CEO of Krista Exhibitions, at a press conference on August 9, 2025, as reported by Industry.co.id. He emphasized, “ILF Expo 2025 is a strategic platform for expanding global networks, opening up new cooperation opportunities, and encouraging sustainable growth for national business players.”
This year’s ILF Expo is expected to draw more than 280 participants from 11 countries, including China, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Germany, South Korea, Malaysia, Switzerland, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia itself. Notably, 50 Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will join the lineup, demonstrating the sector’s commitment to inclusivity and grassroots innovation. Organizers are targeting a crowd of 15,000 visitors, comprising buyers, distributors, and key industry decision-makers from around the world.
The range of products on display is as diverse as it is impressive: fashion shoes, boots, flat shoes, sandals, exotic leather products, leather for furniture and accessories, raw material processing machinery, textiles, sneakers, and a host of industry support services. The event is positioned as more than just a trade show—it’s a motor for industrial transformation, helping local producers connect with international buyers and technology providers.
In a nod to Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, the expo will feature a vibrant series of special events. Highlights include the Independence Fashion Contest: Kebaya & Batik, a collaborative effort with organizations such as PERWANTI and PSMTI, and support from designer Sekar Ayu Jiwanta. Exclusive fashion shows by BRUTUS & BURGO will add flair, while the anniversary celebration of APRISINDO (the Indonesian Footwear Association) promises to unite industry veterans and newcomers alike.
The ILF Expo 2025 will also host a high-profile talk show themed “Weaving Collaboration between Fashion and Manufacturing: The Future of Indonesia’s Footwear and Leather Industry.” Distinguished speakers include Poppy Dharsono, Chairwoman of the Indonesia Fashion Chamber and APPMI (the Indonesian Fashion Designers Association); Eddy Widjanarko, Chairman of APRISINDO; and Bayu Wicaksono from the Ministry of Trade. Their discussion will center on how collaboration across sectors can drive innovation and secure Indonesia’s competitive edge in the global market.
Business Matching and Networking Dinner sessions are set to be another cornerstone of the expo, bringing together industry associations such as APRISINDO, APRINDO (the Indonesian Retail Merchants Association), APPMI, and APKI (the Indonesian Leather Association). These gatherings, supported by the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Trade, are designed to foster business deals and knowledge sharing between local manufacturers and international buyers.
Support for the expo comes from all levels of government, including the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, and the local government of Garut Regency—a region renowned as Indonesia’s national leather center. This broad backing underscores the event’s strategic importance in boosting export value, creating jobs, and strengthening Indonesia’s reputation as a global player in the leather and footwear sector.
“We are committed to providing a strategic forum that brings together producers, technology providers, and buyers from both domestic and international markets. This exhibition is not just a promotional event but a driving force for industrial transformation, expanding global networks, and paving the way for sustainable growth for national business actors,” said Daud D. Salim, as quoted by jatimnow.com.
As reported by SuaraMerdeka-Jakarta.com, the expo’s 18th edition will also see collaboration with key fashion and manufacturing organizations, ensuring that the entire value chain—from raw materials to finished products—gets its moment in the spotlight. The event’s inclusive approach is further highlighted by the active involvement of MSMEs, reflecting Indonesia’s drive to empower small businesses and promote equitable industry growth.
Industry observers note that Indonesia’s leather and footwear sector has weathered global economic headwinds with resilience, thanks in part to its focus on quality and innovation. The sector’s ability to adapt to changing market demands—whether through sustainable materials, advanced manufacturing technologies, or fresh design concepts—has helped it stand out in a crowded international marketplace.
With the ILF Expo 2025, Indonesia is not just celebrating past achievements but also charting a bold course for the future. The event’s packed agenda of exhibitions, competitions, networking sessions, and thought leadership forums signals a renewed confidence in the nation’s industrial capabilities and its ambition to become a top global exporter.
As Indonesia commemorates its 80th year of independence, the ILF Expo 2025 stands as both a showcase of national pride and a testament to the country’s growing influence in global trade. For industry insiders and international observers alike, all eyes will be on Jakarta this August, as Indonesia’s leather and footwear sector steps confidently onto the world stage, ready for new partnerships, new markets, and new heights.
