Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with the Indian leather and footwear industry leaders with the countries leather association in Chennai on 2nd September 2025 at the ITC Grand Chola.

The meeting was attended by R K Jalan, Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), R Selvam, Executive Director of CLE and several industry members.

During the discussion, industry representatives highlighted the current export trends. They also shared the challenges faced by exporters and placed requests for government support to boost the sector.

This meeting comes at a time when the footwear and leather industry is looking to expand its presence in global markets while overcoming rising competition and shifting trade policies.

The session allowed industry voices to be heard directly by the Finance Minister which industry leaders believe will help the sector move towards stronger government support and policies.