Italian footwear exports declined 1.6% to around €3 billion during the first quarter of 2026 as geopolitical tensions, weaker international demand and rising costs continued to weigh on the sector, according to the latest economic report released by the Confindustria Accessori Moda Research Centre for Assocalzaturifici.

The report showed that the industry’s total turnover declined 2.7% during the January-March period. Exports, which account for around 90% of the sector’s total turnover, fell 1.6% in value and 3.6% in volume compared with the same period last year.

Despite the slowdown in overseas markets, Italy’s domestic footwear market showed modest growth. Italian households spent €1.28 billion on footwear during the first quarter, up 1.7% in value and 2.1% in volume year over year, driven mainly by stronger demand for women’s footwear and trainers.

Trainers and sports footwear together accounted for 41% of total consumer spending.

Among export destinations, France remained Italy’s largest market, with exports increasing 6% in value despite a 3.6% decline in shipment volumes. Germany recorded a sharper slowdown, with exports falling 10%.

International markets continued to face significant challenges. Exports to West Asia declined 33%, including a 62% drop in March following the outbreak of regional conflict.

Shipments to the former Soviet bloc countries fell 21%, while exports to the United States declined 7.4% in value amid additional import tariffs introduced since spring 2025.

Despite weaker exports, the sector’s trade surplus improved 10.9% year over year to €1.3 billion, supported by a 9.5% decline in imports by value.

The industry also continued to lose companies and jobs during the quarter. Compared with the end of 2025, the number of active footwear manufacturing companies declined by 85, while employment fell by 808 workers.

Commenting on the results, Giovanna Ceolini, President of Assocalzaturifici, said the figures confirmed concerns expressed by companies at the beginning of the year.

“The international picture continues to be marked by unpredictability, driving up costs and slowing our buyers’ purchasing decisions. Rising raw material and energy costs are a further cause for concern”

– Giovanna Ceolini, President of Assocalzaturifici

Ceolini added that supporting internationalisation, strengthening competitiveness and ensuring stability remain essential for Italy’s footwear industry, which continues to be a strategic sector for Made in Italy.