A great new meeting point for the leather industry

 

In a global context where productive relocation and supplier diversification have become strategic priorities, Southeast Asia emerges as one of the most dynamic territories for the leather, footwear and leather goods industry. In this scenario, the APLF ASEAN Indonesia 2026 fair is presented as a concrete business platform for those looking to expand markets, generate high-level contacts and position themselves in one of the regions with the highest industrial growth in the world.

 

Backdrop to the Event

The next edition will take place on November 17 and 18, 2026 at the Jakarta International Expo, in the country’s capital, marking a milestone in the expansion of the APLF ecosystem to Indonesia, the largest economy in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) bloc. This figure is not minor because the country not only concentrates a population of almost 288 million but also exhibits a projected GDP growth of 4% to 5% per year by 2030, accompanied by a strong consolidation as a global manufacturing hub.

 

For international suppliers to the leather and its associated manufacturing industry, the appeal is obvious. Indonesia is already among the world’s top five footwear exporters, while its leather industry employs close to one million people and continues to attract international investment. This translates into a sustained demand for inputs, leather, components, chemicals and technology.

Driven by Results

The fair will bring together more than 100 international exhibitors, covering the entire value chain, from finished hides and leathers to synthetic materials, components, machinery and specialized services. But beyond its expository dimension, APLF ASEAN‘s differential lies in its results-oriented approach. The event is designed under a “matchmaking” model that connects suppliers with verified buyers and real decision-makers, guaranteeing concrete business meetings and not mere superficial contacts.

 

This scheme responds to the proposal to shorten commercial cycles and maximize the efficiency of time at the fair. Previous experiences within the APLF circuit have demonstrated the potential of this format, with hundreds of one-on-one meetings, which result in commercial agreements and strategic alliances. In a competitive environment, where each trip must justify its return, this type of professional curation makes all the difference.

Visitor Profile

Another key aspect is the profile of the visitors. The fair brings together footwear, leather goods and apparel manufacturers, OEMs, distributors, traders and buyers from sectors such as furniture and automotive. It is therefore a highly specialised meeting point, where demand is clearly aligned with supply.

 

In addition, APLF ASEAN expands its reach beyond Jakarta through business matching programs in strategic cities such as Surabaya – a manufacturing center with a strong presence of footwear factories – and Bangkok, a regional hub for fashion and the automotive sector. This geographical extension allows participants to access multiple productive poles in Southeast Asia in a single trip, optimizing costs and multiplying opportunities.

 

From a strategic perspective, participating in this fair implies inserting oneself in a region that is consolidating itself as an alternative and complement to China in global supply chains. It also represents the possibility of diversifying risks, attracting new customers and anticipating the sourcing trends of large international brands.

Solid Experience in the Leather Industry

With more than 40 years of experience, APLF has proven to be one of the most influential platforms in the world in the leather and fashion industry, connecting companies from more than 100 countries and generating effective business opportunities. Its landing in Indonesia responds to the need to bring global supply closer to one of the most active and expanding markets on the planet.

 

For leather, footwear and leather goods companies, being present at APLF ASEAN Indonesia 2026 will not only allow them to access that market, but also to position themselves as a competitive supplier in a new geography of opportunities.

 

To participate in the APLF ASEAN in Jakarta, contact your regional representative, or write to us directly on [email protected].

 

More information: APLF ASEAN Indonesia 2026