Figures from the World Footwear Yearbook 2026, released by the Portuguese Footwear, Components and Leather Goods Manufacturers’ Association (APICCAPS), show that Portugal produced 74 million pairs of shoes last year.

Almost all footwear made in Portugal is sold abroad, with 93% exported to 174 markets around the world. Last year, the country exported 69 million pairs of shoes, generating around €1.72 billion.

The average price reached $28.25 per pair, up 2.5% from the previous year. This placed Portugal second only to Italy and reflects the country’s focus on higher-quality footwear. Leather shoes represented 58% of exports.

Germany bought the largest share of Portuguese footwear, at 24%, followed by France at 20%. The Netherlands and Spain each received 11%, while the UK represented 6%.

Portuguese footwear exports increased by 0.8% in 2025, reversing two consecutive years of decline. The result also contrasted with falling exports from Italy and Spain.

Portugal maintained its position as Europe’s second-largest footwear producer and increased its lead over neighbouring Spain, producing 14 million more pairs during the year.

However, the first half of 2026 brought a new slowdown. Portuguese footwear exports fell by 2.1% compared with the same period last year, reaching €813 million.

APICCAPS executive director Paulo Gonçalves said the industry is going through a difficult period, but Portugal has managed to perform better than many of its main competitors.

The decline recorded by Portugal was smaller than in Italy and Spain, where exports had fallen by 4.3% and 7.3%, respectively, by May.