China’s role in the global leather and footwear industry is undeniable. Guangdong Province, particularly Guangzhou city and its Shiling district, is considered the “heart” of this sector. Representing this region is the Guangzhou Footwear Association (Guangdong Shoes Manufacturers Association – TAGSM). Negotiations between its leadership and the “Uzcharmsanoat” Association have opened new opportunities for Uzbekistan’s leather industry.

At the core of negotiations – investment and export

During his visit to China, Chairman of the “Uzcharmsanoat” Association Akbar Sultanov met with the leadership of Guangzhou Footwear Association. The talks focused on two key issues:

• establishing investment cooperation,
• exporting products to other countries through Uzbekistan.

The heart of China’s footwear industry

Guangzhou Footwear Association is not only a leading structure of Guangdong Province but also a central hub of China’s entire footwear sector. The association unites hundreds of large enterprises and thousands of manufacturers, serving as an important platform for international trade and investment.

📊 In Shiling district alone:

• nearly 8,000 enterprises,
• over 300,000 workers,
• more than 2,600 brands.

These figures show that China’s leather and footwear industry is one of the strongest links in the global supply chain.

Opportunities for Uzbekistan

The Chinese side emphasized that Uzbekistan is seen not only as an attractive investment hub but also as a new logistics bridge to global markets.

For Uzbekistan, this partnership brings several strategic benefits:

• Investment inflows. Chinese companies establishing production lines could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in added value.
• Export expansion. Finished products will gain broader access to European, Turkish, and Middle Eastern markets.
• Brand reputation. Joint projects with international companies will boost the prestige and credibility of “Made in Uzbekistan” products.

Benefits for China

For China, cooperation with Uzbekistan also provides important advantages:

• Production diversification. With rising labor costs, Uzbekistan offers affordable and skilled labor.
• Strategic geography. Uzbekistan serves as a natural bridge to Europe and the Middle East.
• Stable environment. The country provides a secure and predictable investment climate.
• Trade preferences. Products manufactured in Uzbekistan can enter certain markets under preferential conditions.

Including Uzbekistan in the investment map of one of China’s leading footwear associations marks an important step in the country’s path to becoming a regional industrial hub.

Cooperation with the Guangzhou Footwear Association opens new perspectives for both sides:

• for Uzbekistan – investment, technology, and expanded exports,
• for China – new markets, diversification, and logistical advantages.

This is not just a business dialogue, but a strategic decision with the potential to reshape the leather and footwear industry across the region.