By Amit Chopra | New Delhi | June 20th, 2025
India’s largest trade fair for leather goods and footwear industry is set to return to New Delhi with a larger footprint, a broader global outlook and a new identity. The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) has officially announced the 7th edition of the Bharat Footwear and Leather Expo (BFLEX), scheduled to take place from November 12–14, 2025, at the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC), Yashobhoomi, Dwarka.
Previously known as the Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX), the event has been rebranded to reflect India’s expanding role in global trade and its vision of becoming a premier sourcing hub for leather goods and footwear.
“BFLEX is no longer just a domestic platform. It’s evolving into a global meeting point for manufacturers, designers, buyers, and suppliers,” R. Selvam, IAS, Executive Director, CLE
Expanding Scope and International Participation
The 2025 edition of BFLEX will feature several firsts. For the first time, international exhibitors will be invited to participate, with expected delegations from Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Italy, Spain and the UK. This shift is part of CLE’s strategy to position BFLEX as an international trade fair, on par with similar events in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Organizers expect over 350 Indian exhibitors and around 100 overseas exhibitors, alongside 250–300 foreign buyersand a large number of Indian buying agents.
The event will occupy 12,000 square meters across Halls 2A and 2B at Yashobhoomi, a significant upgrade from the 8,000 sq. meters used during the previous edition.
A Successful Precedent
The previous edition, held in 2024, witnessed:
- 4,092 structured business meetings
- Estimated business worth ₹1,123 crore
- Participation from companies across 10 Indian states
- Positive feedback from domestic exhibitors on buyer engagement and lead generation
The success of last year’s event, according to CLE, created the momentum for the fair’s expansion and internationalization.
Opportunities for Exhibitors
The upcoming edition will feature a comprehensive product showcase that includes:
- Leather and non-leather footwear
- Leather garments and fashion accessories
- Footwear components and finished leather
- Machinery for tanneries and footwear production
- Saddlery, harness, pet products, and safety gear
- Traditional Indian handicrafts like Kolhapuri chappals and leather toys
CLE is positioning BFLEX as a launchpad for Indian manufacturers looking to scale exports, enter new markets and connect with international buyers. The fair also targets Indian companies aiming to expand their domestic distribution in a fast-growing retail landscape.
Participation Details and Incentives
Indian exhibitors can avail of early bird pricing if they book by July 17, 2025. Booth sizes range from 9 to 36 sq. mtrs, with participation charges starting at ₹1,08,324 (inclusive of GST).
| Booth Size | Early Bird Rate (incl. GST) |
| 9 sq. mtrs | ₹1,08,324 |
| 12 sq. mtrs | ₹1,44,432 |
| 18 sq. mtrs | ₹2,16,648 |
| 24 sq. mtrs | ₹2,88,864 |
| 36 sq. mtrs | ₹4,33,296 |
After July 17, regular rates of ₹13,200 per sq. mtr will apply. CLE has also applied for government funding support and if approved, participants may receive a ₹3,000 per sq. mtr refund.
Booths will be allotted on a first-come, first-served basis, and full payment is required to confirm bookings.
A Platform for Global Connections
The inclusion of foreign exhibitors and buyers is expected to elevate BFLEX into a significant trade gateway for South Asia, connecting Indian producers with the global leather and footwear ecosystem. CLE officials believe this evolution will also help Indian companies benchmark against international standards, adopt new design and production trends and attract long-term buyers.
The event also reflects the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat narratives, showcasing India’s manufacturing depth across product categories and price points.
“BFLEX 2025 is more than a trade show, it’s a strategic instrument to strengthen India’s footprint in global leather trade,” said a senior CLE official.
As global brands look to diversify their sourcing and India ramps up its export ambitions, BFLEX 2025 arrives at a crucial juncture for the industry. With a growing consumer base, a mature supply chain and government support, India is poised to take significant strides in the global leather and footwear arena.
For more information and exhibitor registration, visit: www.bharatfootwearleatherexpo.com
