São Paulo – Brazilian exports of shoe components generated US$ 722 million between January and August this year, an increase of 15.56% in comparison with the same period in 2007. The figures were disclosed on Friday (19) by the Brazilian Association of Shoe and Leather Components Industries (Assintecal).
In August alone, foreign sales grew over 10% when compared to the same month last year, but they dropped 3.74% in comparison with July 2008, according to the organisation. The field that most expanded exports was inputs, with 45% growth. The sector with greatest participation, however, was welded shoes, with 19.29% of the total shipped.
According to Assintecal, the main destinations for exports this year were Argentina, Germany, Mexico, Venezuela and Chile. All in all, Brazil exported to 165 countries in the first eight months of this year.
Sector imports grew 28% and reached US$ 1.241 billion from January to August. In August alone, foreign purchases grew 23.43%. In comparison with July, the sector that grew most was the accessory sector, with 58.85% growth in imports.
The main Brazilian suppliers in the first eight months of 2008 were China, Germany, Italy, Argentina and France. The country imported components from 204 countries in the period, always according to the Assintecal.
*Translated by Mark Ament
