Brazilian footwear industry sees decreasing exports in May

Argentina remained the top destination for Brazilian footwear exports in the first five months of the year. During this period, 6.58 million pairs were imported by Brazil’s Spanish-speaking neighbor, generating US$ 106.6 million in revenue. Although there was a slight decrease of 3.6% in volume, the revenue increased significantly by 43% compared to the same period last year.

The United States ranked as the second major destination for Brazilian footwear exports. However, there was a notable decline in both volume and revenue. The North American market imported 4.56 million pairs, paying US$ 92 million, representing a decrease of 54.7% in volume and 37% in revenue compared to the same period in 2022.

On the other hand, France also experienced a decline in imports of Brazilian footwear and ranked third in the destination list. France imported 1.63 million pairs between January and May, amounting to US$ 25.7 million. This signifies a considerable drop of 60% in volume and 12.5% in revenue compared to the same period last year.

Producing states

Rio Grande do Sul was the state in Brazil that send the most footwear abroad. From January to May, factories in the country’s southernmost state shipped 15.86 million pairs, generating revenue of US$ 235.26 million. Although there was a decline of 12.7% in volume and 4.4% in revenue compared to the same period last year, it remained the country’s largest exporter.

Ceará followed as the second-largest exploring state during this period. It exported 18 million pairs, earning US$ 129 million, representing an 8.2% decrease in volume but a 6.7% increase in revenue compared to 2022.

São Paulo ranked third with 3.8 million pairs exported, amounting to US$ 52 million. This signifies drops of 8.1% in volume and 2.7% in revenue. Bahia showed positive growth, shipping 1.93 million pairs valued at US$ 37.97 million, marking increases of 2.6% and 41.3%, respectively.

Against the flow

On the other hand, footwear imports continued to rise. From January to May, Brazil imported 14.78 million pairs for US$ 188.4 million, demonstrating a 3.9% increase in volume and a significant 23.7% increase in spending compared to the same period in 2022. The main origin countries for imports are all in Asia, with Vietnam leading the way (3.9 million pairs, US$ 89.4 million, up 21.7% and 30.1% respectively), followed by Indonesia (1.74 million pairs, US$ 35.97 million, up 25.7% and 28%), and China (7.4 million pairs, US$ 24.3 million, down 5% and 1.1%).

Regarding footwear parts, such as uppers, soles, heels, and insoles, imports reached US$ 11.44 million, a 15.6% increase compared to 2022. China, Paraguay, and Vietnam were the primary source countries for these imports.