German footwear manufacturers saw a modest sales increase in the first half of 2025, driven entirely by domestic demand.

Total sales reached €1.16 billion, up 1.3% from €1.15 billion in the same period last year. Domestic sales grew 5.1% to €924 million.

Exports between January and May rose to 159.8 million pairs, a 4% increase compared to last year. Despite a slight drop in the average export price to €27.83 euros per pair, the total export value grew 2.6% to €4.45 billion.

Poland led as the top market, with exports rising 11.5%. France and Italy followed with growth of 6.2% and 11.4%, respectively. However, exports to Austria, Switzerland and the UK fell slightly.

The US market saw a notable 22% rise in German footwear exports, reaching 6.9 million pairs.

Recent EU–US agreements capped duties at 15%, avoiding a threatened 30% tariff. The industry remains cautious as the association warned

“What was true yesterday may already be outdated tomorrow.”

– HDS/L (Associationn)

Imports increased in the first five months, reaching 331 million pairs, up 17.2% from last year. Vietnam and Indonesia emerged as major suppliers, growing 36.1% and 33.0%.

China continued to dominate, accounting for over 40% of imports with 138 million pairs, up 13%.

Looking ahead, HDS/L expects positive developments despite volatile global conditions and cautious consumer sentiment in Germany.

Recent EU–Indonesia trade agreements and reduced bureaucracy for small and medium-sized enterprises could further support growth.