1. Vietnam Hosts the Prestigious 41st International Footwear Conference

This annual event is a significant gathering for the global footwear industry, drawing participants from over 17 countries across Asia and beyond.

CIFA is a prominent international federation representing the footwear industry, comprising associations from countries including Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, India, China, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Each year, CIFA’s conference serves as a vital platform for over 300 members, including global footwear brands, major raw material suppliers, manufacturers, and industry experts, to explore the latest advancements and trends in the footwear sector.

In 2024, Vietnam was honored to host this influential event, with the Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association (LEFASO) taking on the role of the rotating President of CIFA. This year’s conference provided a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into the key development directions of the footwear industry, fostering valuable exchanges and interactions with top-tier partners.

2. Key Highlights and Topics

The conference covered a range of critical topics affecting the footwear industry:

• US and EU Updated Policies: Insights into the latest regulatory changes impacting global trade.
• Digital Product Passport Regulations: Guidance on new requirements for product traceability.
• Safety in Production: Emphasis on reducing toxic chemicals and ensuring safer production practices.
• Country Reports: Analysis of the footwear sector’s performance and trends in various regions.

The conference underscored several global trends:

• Sustainability and Traceability: Emphasis on green production and CO2 reduction.
• Environmental Protection: A growing focus on reducing the environmental footprint of footwear production.

Furthermore, the conference tackled pressing challenges faced by the footwear industry. The impact of geopolitical tensions, such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, is linked to energy shortages and inflation affecting many countries globally. Post-pandemic issues are also concerning, as businesses deal with declining consumption, shifting consumer attitudes, and a fractured global supply chain. To navigate these challenges, several potential solutions were discussed. Many professionals see significant potential in 4.0 technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity and efficiency, while some experts consider Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards crucial when choosing production partners. ESG encompasses broader aspects than environmental protection alone, including human impact and labor support. A Korean representative highlighted that Vietnam has the potential to become a leading industry hub if it rigorously adopts ESG standards.

TradeLink Technologies participated actively in the conference, using the opportunity to connect with businesses, expand our network, and showcase our solutions. The company gained valuable insights into industry developments and explored how their RFID solutions and raw material tracking technologies could help clients enhance their commitment to traceability and sustainable supply chains.

With a robust portfolio of international clients and a broad network of suppliers, TradeLink Technologies remains dedicated to delivering solutions that align with clients’ goals, promoting sustainability and innovation in many industries. 

3. Conclusion

The 41st International Footwear Conference in Vietnam was a resounding success, providing a platform for industry professionals to discuss challenges, share solutions, and explore future trends. As the footwear industry continues to evolve, events like these play a crucial role in shaping its direction and fostering global collaboration.