Hong Kong, March 14, 2025 – The APLF 2025 International Leather Fair successfully concluded in Hong Kong, reaffirming its status as a premier platform for the global leather industry. Over the course of three days, the event welcomed more than 800 exhibitors and key buyers from China and the Pacific Rim, fostering business growth, networking opportunities, and trend forecasting.
A Landmark Edition for the Leather Industry
Celebrating its fifth decade, APLF 2025 demonstrated its continued influence on the industry. During the inaugural press conference, Event Director Janice Lee emphasized the fair’s impact on market trends and pricing for the coming months. “APLF is more than just an exhibition; it’s a driving force behind the evolution of the leather industry,” she stated, highlighting the fair’s role in shaping the global market. This year, expanded onsite events and educational programs played a pivotal role in knowledge-sharing and industry engagement. These additions, implemented in response to visitor feedback, particularly focused on Generation Z, a demographic increasingly influencing the future of fashion and sustainability.
“The fair always provides excellent networking opportunities. We engaged with key international buyers and strengthened relationships with existing clients, making APLF an essential event for our business growth.”
Sushil Singla, Director, Discovery, Exhibitor
Creativity and Craftsmanship Take Center Stage
One of the key highlights of APLF 2025 was its celebration of creativity in leather fashion. Designers, from seasoned experts to emerging talents, presented innovative collections that pushed the boundaries of craftsmanship. A standout exhibit was the LED x Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather Consortium, which showcased a fusion of modern aesthetics and traditional techniques, demonstrating how heritage craftsmanship can be reinterpreted for contemporary design.
“THE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES AT APLF WERE AMAZING. WE HAD PRODUCTIVE MEETINGS WITH KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS AND ARE EXCITED ABOUT THE POTENTIAL NEW COLLABORATIONS THAT EMERGED FROM THIS EDITION.”
Kwak Chang Hun, EV INC, General manager Sales, South Korea ( Exhibitor)
Italy’s Strong Presence in Hong Kong
Italy reaffirmed its position as a leader in leather craftsmanship with a strong presence at APLF 2025. The National Union of the Italian Leather Industry (UNIC) hosted 38 exhibitors across 27 stands, featuring a diverse range of premium leather goods, raw materials, and intricate embroidery. The Italian showcase attracted substantial interest from international buyers seeking high-quality materials and design excellence.
” The demand for non-leather alternatives and innovative footwear components is higher than ever. We are happy to exhibit and see Indian manufacturers getting recognized on a global scale.”
Nikhil Ramchandani, Condor, Exhibitor @ APLF (Exhibitor)
The Trend Zone: A Look into the Future of Leather Fashion
APLF 2025 also featured the Trend Zone, an exclusive space on the third floor dedicated to forecasting industry movements. The area showcased seasonal collections aligned with global leather trends, offering insights into the upcoming styles and techniques that will shape the market in the coming year.
“Attending APLF is always insightful. From trend forecasting to business networking, the fair provides an unmatched opportunity to stay ahead in the global leather and footwear market.”
Vipin Seth, Versatile (Visitor)
UITIC Prepares for Shanghai 2025
Further solidifying its role as an industry thought leader, the International Union of Shoe Industry Technicians (UITIC) hosted a dedicated conference during APLF 2025, announcing details of its upcoming 22nd UITIC International Technical Footwear Congress in Shanghai, China, from August 31 to September 3, 2025.
Co-organized by UITIC and the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA), this marks the second time China will host the prestigious event, following its successful edition in Guangzhou in 2013. The UITIC Congress remains one of the most significant global conferences in footwear technology, bringing together experts to explore the latest advancements and innovations in the field.
The organizing committee has launched a call for strategic partners and sponsors, offering companies a platform to enhance brand visibility, establish industry leadership, and forge new collaborations. Businesses looking to expand their market presence or strengthen their position in the footwear sector are encouraged to explore sponsorship opportunities for UITIC 2025.
“APLF CONTINUES TO BE A KEY SOURCING EVENT. THIS YEAR, THE FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION STOOD OUT. WE SAW SOME EXCITING NEW MATERIALS AND SUPPLIERS THAT COULD ENHANCE THE PRODUCT RANGE.”
William Wong, President – Global Footwear Sustainability Summit, Hong Kong (Visitor)
APLF 2025: A Resounding Success
As APLF 2025 comes to a close, the fair has once again delivered valuable industry insights, facilitated crucial business partnerships, and reinforced Hong Kong’s role as a global hub for the leather trade. With innovation and sustainability at the forefront, the event continues to set the stage for the future of the leather and footwear industries.
“APLF remains a key event for the leather and footwear industry, providing an excellent platform to engage with manufacturers, suppliers, and innovators. This year, we observed a strong focus on sustainability and quality assurance, both of which are critical in today’s market. Bureau Veritas is committed to supporting the industry with advanced testing, certification, and compliance solutions, ensuring that businesses meet global standards while driving innovation.”
Paul Bridge, Bureau Veritas (Visitor)
