The Dutch footwear retail sector has held up against volatility, achieving a 0.7% increase in sales in the first eight months of 2025, as compared to the same period of the previous year. This outpaces growth in the overall retail market. Despite highly variable monthly sales, ranging from a high of 11% to a low of 7.7%, this modest growth trajectory appears to be supported by a surge in retail confidence, which aligns with positive import data. Although still negative, consumer sentiment is slightly more optimistic   

The WorldFootwear.com is asking all experts within the footwear industry to share their views on the current business situation. Join the new edition of the World Footwear Business Conditions Survey. WE WANT TO HEAR YOU!   

An additional 100% tariff on goods from China was announced to be imposed by US President Donald Trump, as a reaction to China’s move to expand its rare earth element export controls   

An investment of 1.5 million euros in the creation of a production facility will enable the Portuguese manufacturer of footwear soles to produce 5,000 pairs of SBR rubber soles per day   

Meta, Shopee and Alibaba platforms were named by the AAFA in a call for greater accountability, as counterfeiters exploit digital tools to flood markets with fake products and deceive consumers