The evolution of average export prices provides further insight into the dynamics of the global footwear trade. Over the last decade, the value of internationally traded footwear has increased significantly, highlighting a market in which price growth has contributed more to export performance than expanding volumes.

The average export price rose steadily from $8.87 per pair in 2016 to $11.96 per pair in 2023, reflecting a long-term trend towards higher-value products in international markets. Although prices softened in 2024, the decline proved temporary. In 2025, the average export price recovered to $11.65 per pair, demonstrating the resilience of value creation within the sector.

This latest increase is particularly noteworthy given that the number of pairs exported fell slightly during the year. The combination of lower volumes and higher average prices suggests that unit values once again played a positive role in supporting the overall performance of global footwear trade. In other words, exporters generated value not through selling more products, but through exporting footwear with a higher average market value.

However, rising average export prices should not be interpreted solely as evidence of broad-based price increases across all markets and product categories. Changes in the composition of trade can also influence the overall average. A greater share of premium footwear, shifts towards higher-value destination markets, or changes in the relative importance of exporting countries can all contribute to higher unit values at the global level.