Kolhapuri Exports Could Hit $1 Billion Annually Following Prada Partnership, Says Piyush Goyal

Goyal said the agreement marks a major milestone for India’s artisanal sector, creating new international pathways for locally crafted leather footwear. According to him, the partnership will not only boost export volumes but also position the heritage-rich Kolhapuri craft more prominently in premium global markets.

The minister emphasised that the deal is expected to strengthen small-scale industries and artisans who have preserved the traditional techniques of Kolhapuri craftsmanship for generations. By gaining access to international retail networks and high-value consumers, these artisans stand to benefit through expanded employment opportunities and enhanced income stability.

He added that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to elevate India’s traditional products to global recognition, ensuring that rural and craft-based industries become integral contributors to the country’s export basket and economic growth.

With the Prada partnership set to amplify global demand, Kolhapuri chappals—long admired for their durability, cultural identity, and handmade precision—could now emerge as a globally recognised premium product. The government expects the move to provide long-term momentum to India’s artisanal sector and open fresh avenues for rural economic development.