The leather sector is still on the verge of reaching its maximum potential. According to BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun, the leather industry would grow further with concerted efforts from the public and private sectors.
“Leathertech Bangladesh,” an international exhibition featuring footwear machinery, accessories, chemicals, and leather industry items, has commenced. The Expo Village of the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital hosted the opening of the event’s eleventh edition.
The chief guest at the event was BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun. Special guest was Syed Nasim Manzur, President of the Leathergoods and Footwear Manufacturers & Exporters Association. Representatives from industrial organizations in Bangladesh, China, India, and Pakistan were also present.
BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun said that the leather industry is still at the doorstep of its full potential. Leathertech is not just an exhibition but an excellent effort toward realizing that potential. With coordinated public–private initiatives, the industry will move forward.
Syed Nasim Manzur, President of the Leathergoods and Footwear Manufacturers & Exporters Association, said Bangladesh is at a turning point in accelerating export-oriented production in the leather sector. Policy support is essential for technological advancement. Strengthening connections with neighboring countries will make progress even faster.
BFLLEA Chairman Mahiuddin Ahmed Mahin said leather goods are a promising export sector. Leathertech is strengthening Bangladesh’s position in the global market.
Tipu Sultan Bhuiyan, Managing Director of ASK Trade & Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, said that around 200 companies from eight countries are participating in the exhibition. Separate pavilions of CLE, PTA, IFCOMA, and GSMA are also taking part. The event is receiving assistance from LFMAB in various areas.
Since its inception 11 years ago, Leathertech Bangladesh has become a reliable platform for innovation and market expansion in the leather, footwear, and allied sectors. It has introduced industry entrepreneurs to global technologies and fostered new entrepreneurship.
After ready-made garments, the leather and footwear industry is the country’s second-largest export sector. Bangladesh supplies 3% of global leather products and meets 10% of the global demand for footwear. As the sector is prioritized for export diversification in the Industrial Policy 2022, it is working to strengthen its role as a global sourcing hub.
According to EPB data, by the end of October in the 2025–26 fiscal year, the sector saw an export growth of 9.7%. Export earnings during this period reached $591.5 million, up from $539.4 million in the previous year. The sector is becoming stable after overcoming volatility.
The technologies, materials, and accessories showcased at “Leathertech Bangladesh 2025” will benefit those planning to increase production, introduce new products, or make new investments. The exhibition will run from 4 to 6 December, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Business visitors can enter free of charge.
