KARACHI, Jan 10: The chairman, Pakistan Tanners Association (PTA), S M Naseem, said that shoe industry was steadily shifting from Europe to China and India as both the countries are catering to the needs of buyers at cheaper rates.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the PTA chief said initially shoe industry shifted from Western Europe to Eastern Europe but now the industry was making its way to India and China because of cost benefit.

Mr Naseem said that China and India were main beneficiaries of relocation of shoe manufacturing industry because they had sufficient infrastructure and other allied incentives made by their governments.

He also urged that Pakistan exporters should continue their strong presence in Lineapelle fair held in Bologna, Italy, twice a year as it ensures viable position in Italian market as well other European countries.

In this context, he strongly emphasized the need and urged the government specially the EPB for announcing due concessions and facilities to exporters and to improve infrastructure for leather industry.