At the Biswa Bangla Exhibition Centre in Kolkata, the leather industry showcased its finest craftsmanship and innovation, proving that India’s eastern powerhouse is poised to take the global stage.
Report By Dipika Chopra
Kolkata, October 30, 2025. The AILPA (All India Leather Products and Allied) Sourcing Fair 2025 organised by Indian Leather Products Association(ILPA)concluded this week at the Biswa Bangla Exhibition Centre in Kolkata, closing three days of bustling trade, trend-spotting and thoughtful conversations on sustainability and design. With more than 100 exhibitors showcasing world-class products and buyers from over 20 countries, the fair reaffirmed Kolkata’s reputation as the heart of India’s leather craftsmanship and hinted that the future is being shaped right here, on Bengal’s soil. The fair, held from October 28 to 30, was organized by ILPA as Eastern India’s largest B2B sourcing platform, designed to connect Indian manufacturers and exporters with global buyers in fashion accessories, lifestyle leather goods and footwear. But it wasn’t just another trade fair, it was a statement of purpose.
“The response from international buyers was phenomenal. The East is no longer emerging, it’s leading.”
Arjun Kulkarni, President ILPA
The inaugural ceremony began with a traditional lamp lighting by representatives from Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO), symbolizing the spirit of collaboration between industry and government in driving sustainable growth.
“This fair was not just an exhibition; it was a movement. From the energy of the exhibitors to the enthusiasm of the buyers, everything about this edition signalled that Kolkata is ready to take its rightful place as a global sourcing destination.”
Adhar Sahni, Chairman – ILPA International Trade Fair Committee
A Global Gathering with Eastern Flair
With a robust international turnout, the event drew buyers from more than 20 countries, including a particularly strong contingent from Russia, alongside visitors from Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The fair floor was alive with product showcases ranging from luxury handbags and minimalist wallets to precision-crafted belts and eco-conscious accessories.
“Kolkata’s manufacturing ecosystem is dynamic and full of potential. Through events like this, we aim to give our MSMEs the visibility and networking they deserve on an international stage.” Rajarshi Dey, Vice President, ILPA
According to Arjun Kulkarni, President ILPA, “The response from international buyers was phenomenal. The East is no longer emerging, it’s leading.” For three days, the Biswa Bangla Exhibition Centre transformed into a microcosm of global trade where the clinking of metal zippers mixed with conversations about circular design and where traditional craftsmanship met modern sensibility.
“The fair has opened new channels for collaboration and export growth. Our focus remains on building stronger bridges between Indian manufacturers and global buyers, particularly in emerging markets that value quality, craftsmanship and reliability.” Jagdish Gulati, Co-Chairman ILPA International Trade Fair Committee
Sustainability Takes Centre Stage
If there was one word that defined this year’s edition, it was sustainability. The show was curated around “Sustainable Materials and Eco Aesthetics” by Gunnar Hoffrichter, well known International Fair Curator from Germany, who ensured that the theme translated not just in form but in spirit. Exhibitors displayed everything from from premium leather products of latest international trends, biodegradable leather substitutes to upcycled accessories, demonstrating that environmental responsibility is not a trend but an ethos. Adding a heartfelt touch, ILPA announced it would plant a tree in the name of every exhibitor and visitor a symbolic and commendable gesture that resonated deeply across the event. The fair’s focus was clear: the leather and allied industries must evolve to meet the world’s growing call for conscious consumption. And the Indian industry, particularly its eastern base, is rising to that challenge.
“The industry is redefining itself. Today’s buyers want transparency, purpose and craftsmanship. Indian manufacturers, especially in Kolkata, are uniquely positioned to deliver all three.” M. Azhar, Senior Vice President, ILPA
Leather on the Ramp
A captivating Fashion Walk unfolded at the venue, presented across four dynamic sequences over two days each celebrating craftsmanship, design and contemporary style. The glamour quotient of the AILPA Sourcing Fair 2025 reached dazzling heights with the spectacular “Leather on the Ramp” Fashion Show on the 29th October. Curated by Akash Nayyar, Chairman – ILPA Fashion Show Committee and presented in association with Hyatt Regency Kolkata as the hospitality partner, the evening celebrated a seamless blend of creativity and conscious style, a fitting salute to India’s evolving fashion story. Conceptualized by renowned Fashion Designer Tejas Gandhi, the show featured stunning collections from eight leading export houses – Skin n Stitch, Crescent, Trio Group, NS Leather, Edcons, Mrig Fashions, Rajda and Freya Design Studio (sponsored by Ashibo) each interpreting sustainable luxury with distinct flair and artistry.
The runway came alive with 23 national and one international top model, their movements choreographed to perfection by the dynamic Choreographer Pinky Kenworthy. The glamour was amplified by flawless make-up by Rajat Kaushik and the expert show management of Joydeep Majumdar from The Real Show. Adding a truly global touch, an international dance troupe and a special performance by a Spanish artist electrified the atmosphere, while city celebrities dazzled as showstoppers earning resounding applause and sealing the night as an unforgettable celebration of fashion and finesse.
Trends That Tell the Future
Trade fairs are not just about transactions; they’re also about foresight. A major attraction this year was the ModEurop Presentation on Bag Trends Forecast 2026–27, which offered a glimpse into the colors, textures and shapes that will dominate global fashion. The forecast, unveiled during the fair, brought back some old favourites and introduced bold new directions. “Dark leather is back,” announced the presentation, setting the tone for a return to classic sophistication. Biker influences are expected to make a strong statement, paired with what ModEurop described as a “classy collective” understated yet confident design language.
Shape innovation also took the spotlight, with pleats, snakeskin textures and half-moon silhouettes leading the next wave of bag evolution. Shades of deep red and oxblood will dominate, replacing the pastel tones of recent seasons. For design-driven brands and export houses, these insights were gold dust. They represent not just aesthetic preferences but market direction, a compass for what global buyers will seek in the years ahead. Adding to the excitement, AILPA hosted the Colors Trends Presentation 2027, which, in a coup of sorts, was released in India for the first time before its global debut scheduled for December. The presentation echoed a reflective tone, “Turbulent times will reshape the future. The new luxury is restraint, a ‘less is more’ attitude.” The forecast also underscored an era of “brands with honest messages and products with a purpose”, a vision that perfectly aligned with AILPA’s sustainable narrative.
Adding intellectual depth to the event, FDDI (Footwear Design & Development Institute) organized an engaging seminar that highlighted the evolving landscape of design innovation, skilling and sustainability within the footwear and accessories sector.
Awards That Celebrate Craft and Innovation
No fair is complete without celebration and ILPA made sure to honour the best among its participants through the Exhibitor and Product Awards. Crescent bagged the First Place for its design excellence and innovation, while Jiya Exim took the Second, followed by Shri Exports in Third. In the product category, Metropoli stood out with its striking metallic mesh bag, securing the top prize, followed by Rajda Industries and Trio for their standout craftsmanship. A Special Award was presented to the Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) for its contribution to design education and nurturing future industry talent. Each award was a nod to the fact that the Indian leather and accessory industry is not merely competing globally it’s leading through innovation, design, and ethical practice.
Kolkata: A Legacy Reinvented
For decades, Kolkata has been synonymous with leather craftsmanship. From traditional artisan clusters to export-grade production units, the city has shaped India’s reputation in the global leather market. But what’s changing now is its approach, heritage is being reinvented through modern design, digital tools and sustainable practices. The AILPA Sourcing Fair 2025 reflected that transformation. Exhibitors showcased a fusion of artistry and technology laser-cut leather panels, modular bag components, biodegradable trims and digitally designed textures. Buyers from Russia, Italy, Japan and the UAE were seen engaging deeply with Indian exhibitors, not just for immediate orders but for long-term partnerships. “What we saw here was reliability, quality matched with commitment,” said a European buyer attending for the first time. “India’s eastern region clearly means business.”
The East Rises Strong
ILPA’s vision has always been to spotlight Eastern India’s manufacturing strength and this fair did just that. The synergy of policy support, design innovation and skill development is positioning Kolkata as a serious contender in global sourcing networks. In fact, ILPA’s initiative to integrate sustainability with scalability has drawn attention from international trade bodies. The organization’s leadership has expressed plans to expand future editions with stronger participation from components, design houses and new-generation material innovators. “This edition was a turning point,” said Adhar Sahni. “We’ve built not just a fair, but a platform that represents the next chapter for India’s leather and allied industries.”
From Handcrafted Heritage to Global Horizons
The underlying message of the AILPA Sourcing Fair 2025 was clear Indian craftsmanship is timeless, but its narrative is evolving. It’s no longer just about ‘Made in India’; it’s about ‘Created Responsibly in India.’ As the fair concluded, participants left with more than just business leads they carried back insights, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to an industry in transformation. The final day closed with a palpable sense of optimism. The aisles that were once bustling with activity began to quiet down, but the conversations continued about new orders, upcoming collaborations and future shows. For most, this wasn’t the end of an event; it was the beginning of optimal momentum.
Looking Ahead
The success of the 1st edition of the AILPA Sourcing Fair 2025 is expected to set the tone for the coming years. With its focus on sustainability, craftsmanship, and international engagement, the fair is likely to become an annual destination on the global sourcing calendar.
Buyers expressed strong sourcing intent from Indian manufacturers, noting improved design sensibility, finishing quality and delivery capabilities. “The exhibitors displayed that Bengal means business,” said one attending buyer, echoing the sentiment across the fairgrounds. As the lights dimmed on the exhibition hall and the final display panels came down, one thing was evident, Kolkata has not only retained its artisanal charm but has successfully reinvented itself for the global marketplace. And in that moment, under the soft hum of dismantled booths and the quiet chatter of exhibitors exchanging last-minute cards, a clear thought lingered: The world may shop for style elsewhere, but it’s increasingly sourcing its soul from Kolkata.
