The 11th Pakistan Footwear Material & Machinery Show (PFMMS) 2026 was formally inaugurated at Expo Centre Lahore by Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yusuf Raza Gillani, in the presence of leading representatives of the footwear industry, international exhibitors, trade associations, and members of the business community.
Organized by the Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association (PFMA), the three-day exhibition is being held from March 27 to March 29, 2026, and has brought together more than 100 international companies along with local manufacturers, material suppliers, machinery experts, and key stakeholders of the footwear sector.
On the occasion, Mr. Ahmed Fawad Farooq, Chief Organiser and Host of the event, welcomed the chief guest, distinguished participants, and exhibitors, especially the international associations and exhibitors, for their valuable participation. He said that such events play an important role in strengthening mutual business relations, promoting collaboration, and creating new opportunities for trade and industrial development between Pakistan and international partners.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association, Mr. Rashad Islam, said that Pakistan is the 6th largest shoe manufacturer in the world and holds tremendous potential for further growth and development. He said that the 11th edition of PFMMS reflects the confidence of both local and international companies in Pakistan’s footwear industry. He added that the exhibition has created a strong platform where international companies, trade associations, and Pakistan’s footwear industry can come together to build partnerships, explore business opportunities, and promote modern technology and innovation in the sector.
Mr. Rashad Islam thanked the Chairman Senate for gracing the inauguration ceremony as the chief guest and urged the government to formally recognize footwear as an important industrial sector of Pakistan. He emphasized that the footwear industry is contributing positively to the national economy and has strong export potential. He also appealed to the government to reduce customs duties on raw materials, particularly to support footwear exporters, so that Pakistani manufacturers can compete more effectively in international markets.
Mr. Mansoor Ehsan, also thanked the participants and guests and shared details of the 11th Pakistan Footwear Material & Machinery Show 2026, highlighting the scale, international participation, and the opportunities the event offers for technology transfer, networking, and trade development.
After visiting the exhibition, Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gillani appreciated the quality, craftsmanship, and professional capabilities of Pakistani companies. He said that he felt encouraged and pleased to see the impressive work being done by the footwear industry and assured that the government will support this important sector for its growth and progress.
The exhibition is expected to play an important role in strengthening Pakistan’s footwear industry by connecting local manufacturers with international suppliers, introducing advanced machinery and materials, and encouraging new investment and export opportunities.
