strengthen global connections, understand market trends, and expand business potential internationally

Indonesia’s footwear industry is at a turning point, ready to evolve from a global production hub into a recognized international brand. A key platform driving this shift is MICAM Milano, the world’s largest footwear exhibition, which brings together brands, retailers, buyers, distributors, and industry professionals from across the globe.

Held twice a year at Fiera Milano Rho in Italy, MICAM Milano has long served as a benchmark for the global footwear market. The latest edition featured around 795 international brands and over 20,000 industry visitors from more than 130 countries, with roughly 57 percent coming from outside Italy. This highlights its role as a vital hub for networking and business opportunities in the footwear sector.

MICAM and Assocalzaturifici President Giovanna Ceolini emphasizes that MICAM is more than just a trade show. It is a dynamic platform where manufacturing meets emerging trends, technology, and future distribution models. For Indonesia, this is a timely opportunity. According to the Indonesian Footwear Association (APRISINDO), the country ranks among the world’s top four shoe producers, with a production capacity exceeding 1 billion pairs per year.

Beyond high-volume production, Indonesia is also a major footwear exporter. APRISINDO reports that Indonesia’s footwear exports reached approximately US$6.4 billion in 2023, with key markets including the United States, the European Union, Japan, and the Middle East. APRISINDO Chairman Eddy Widjanarko points out that while the country’s manufacturing base is strong, design, branding, and access to international markets must be strengthened. “The next challenge is to increase added value through design innovation, brand development, and global market expansion,” he says.

Indonesia’s potential extends beyond footwear. The leather goods sector, including bags, fashion accessories, and lifestyle items, also shows significant promise. The Ministry of Industry reports that leather product exports exceed US$1 billion annually, with main markets in Japan, the United States, South Korea, and Europe. Craft centers in Garut, Magetan, Yogyakarta, and Bali produce high-quality goods using traditional craftsmanship techniques.

However, much of Indonesia’s footwear industry still operates as an OEM for international brands, meaning global brand value is often owned by foreign companies. Participation in international platforms like MICAM offers Indonesian brands the chance to learn how to build brand identity, develop designs aligned with global trends, and market products worldwide. Initiatives such as MICAM Next, fashion shows, and the Trend Buyer’s Guide also provide insights into emerging trends and expand international networks.

For Indonesia, participation in MICAM Milano offers clear and tangible benefits. It opens direct access to international buyers, allowing Indonesian brands and manufacturers to showcase their capabilities on a global stage. It also provides designers with exposure to global trends, helping them refine their creative direction while maintaining local identity. In addition, the platform supports business expansion by connecting Indonesian players with distributors and retail partners from various markets.

The upcoming edition in September presents a strategic opportunity for Indonesian buyers and designers to take part. By attending, they can explore market demands, build international relationships, and gain insights that are essential for strengthening Indonesia’s position beyond manufacturing. This is not only about visibility, but also about learning, collaboration, and long-term growth within the global footwear ecosystem.

With a strong manufacturing foundation and growing leather goods capabilities, Indonesia is well-positioned to accelerate the transformation of its footwear industry, moving from a global manufacturer to an international brand with a distinctive identity in the world market.

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