The Country's Footwear Exports Have Hit A Record High!

Jun 06, 2023

In 2022, Portuguese footwear gained recognition in the international market, with more than 95% of the industry's products being shipped to international markets. Portuguese footwear and leather goods exported 2.347 billion euros, reaching a historical peak.

For the first time, the export value of Portuguese footwear exceeded 2 billion euros, equivalent to the sales of 76 million pairs. This represents an increase of 20.2% and 10.5% compared to last year, respectively.

Compared to 2019, the total amount of exported footwear has increased by 13.8%.

Divided by destination country, Portugal is growing in almost all relevant markets. For instance, exports to Germany grew 11.7% to 433 million euros, while France grew 15% to 384 million euros, and the Netherlands grew 25% to 306 million euros. Sales to non-EU countries accounted for 20% of total exports, reaching 392 million euros.

Ten years ago, in 2012, non-EU markets accounted for only 9% of total Portuguese footwear exports. Brexit made a decisive contribution to these figures, and in the past decade, exports to the United States have increased to 114 million euros, representing a growth of 52% in 2022 alone.

shoe industry

On the other hand, the average price of exported footwear in 2022 was 26.40 euros, an 8.7% increase from the previous year.

In 2022, Portuguese footwear gained recognition in the international market, with more than 95% of the industry's products being shipped to international markets, according to a spokesperson for the Portuguese Footwear Association.

The export value of Portuguese leather goods also reached a historical high in 2022, increasing by 37.4% to 273 million euros, with France growing by 99% to 86 million euros and Spain growing by 34.2% to 70 million euros, which contributed to the record.

The footwear parts industry also performed well in foreign markets. The footwear accessory department's exports grew 30.2%, reaching 65 million euros. The sole and heel parts grew by 20%, reaching 32 million euros, emphasized by the association.

In this field, the main highlights are Germany, which grew by 13% to 16 million euros, France, which grew by 40% to 11 million euros, and Spain, which grew by 16% to 9 million euros.