Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The ongoing “25th International Shoes & Leather Exhibition – Vietnam” in Ho Chi Minh City has become a significant platform for promoting Uzbek leather products to international markets, turning into a form of export diplomacy for the industry.

The national “Made in Uzbekistan” booth, organized by the Uzcharmsanoat Association, drew considerable interest from exhibition participants and visitors. Around ten domestic manufacturers showcased a wide range of products — from finished leather and gelatin to specialized footwear. In the first few days, constructive contacts were established with potential partners, including wholesale importers, distributors, and manufacturing companies.

A key event was the discussion with the Vietnam Leather, Footwear and Handbag Association (LEFASO), the region's largest industry association. During talks with the Vice President of LEFASO, mechanisms for organizing direct supplies of Uzbek products to more than 2,000 member enterprises were explored. This opens the door for Uzbekistan’s leather goods to be integrated into stable, long-term supply chains — a strategic milestone for the sector.

Indian trader STAR EXPORTS expressed interest in purchasing five containers of wet-blue leather. Negotiations are underway with “Global Avangard” regarding contract terms, logistics, and technical specifications, with plans for regular deliveries following an initial trial shipment.

German company A+B HIDES showed strong interest in finished leather, praising the Uzbek products for meeting environmental standards, holding the necessary certifications, and offering reliable logistics. The negotiations involved “Hamkor Nur Savdo” and “Global Avangard,” with samples now being shipped and technical parameters under review.

Taiwanese firm JETSHOES showed interest in eco-friendly and recycled sheep leather, aligning with its production focus. Uzbek representatives are preparing sample shipments based on the company’s technical specifications.

India’s JAY DEE LEATHER discussed potential supplies of finished leather goods with brands like DSM and Top Quality. Test samples will be sent, and the Indian firm expressed its intention not only to import but also to promote Uzbek products in Asian markets through its established trade and marketing channels.

Thus, Uzbekistan’s participation in the Ho Chi Minh exhibition has gone beyond showcasing export potential — it has become a concrete step toward expanding supply geography and integrating into international production and distribution chains.

A meeting with a Pakistani company headed by Sheikh Afzal Hussain focused on the export of both finished leather and semi-processed wet-blue. The Pakistani side proposed a strategic partnership model, in which Uzbek leather would be purchased for further processing and distributed to regional markets under its own brand. This approach enables the use of Uzbekistan’s production capacity to enter larger South Asian trade networks.

Tenero Suede Exports from India, a producer of high-quality goat suede and sheep nappa, also expressed interest in sourcing environmentally certified Uzbek leather. Work is currently underway to prepare test samples and agree on documentation requirements, including quality and sustainability standards.

An agreement was reached with Saudi Arabian company Zaqrt on trial deliveries. Uzbek leather was identified as a promising alternative for the domestic market in the kingdom. Both parties exchanged preliminary documents, paving the way for direct shipments as part of further cooperation.

Additionally, discussions with Thai company SarChem International — specializing in chemical components and gelatin production — focused on technological collaboration. An exchange of lab samples and joint development of product enhancement solutions is planned.