Prada Kolhapuri exports could hit $1 billion after tie-up

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has said India’s iconic Kolhapuri chappals could soon become a $1-billion-a-year export success, thanks to a new collaboration between Italian luxury brand Prada and two government-run leather corporations.

Calling the partnership a major global boost for the traditional footwear, Goyal said he had long believed Kolhapuris — known for their intricate designs, vibrant colours and handmade craftsmanship — deserved international recognition. “I’m happy Prada has picked it up. This can take Kolhapuri designs to the world,” he said.

The MoU, signed in Mumbai with LIDCOM and LIDKAR, follows Prada’s technical team visit to Kolhapur to study local production and meet artisans. The luxury brand will launch its Kolhapuri-inspired collection across 40 global stores and online in February 2026.

Goyal said his $1-billion export target is achievable, noting that “once you start wearing Kolhapuris, you won’t want anything else.”

The move comes months after Prada faced criticism for selling Kolhapuri-style sandals at Rs 1.2 lakh without crediting Indian artisans. With Italy pushing for deeper trade ties and India advancing the EU free trade agreement, the collaboration marks a significant moment for Indian craftsmanship on the world stage.