The Italian association of manufacturers of machines for the shoe, leathergoods and tannery industries, Assomac, held its AGM at its headquarters in Vigevano, on June 29, to discuss the problems facing the footwear and leather industries.

Chairman Giovanni Gaia said that the causes of the recession—Chinese competition, the undervalued dollar, labour costs, etc.—are still causing problems and that Assomac, in conjunction with Federmacchine, had offered the government guidelines for supporting the Italian production and manufacturing system.

According to Mr Gaia, China has tripled its trade surplus, producing more than 10 billion pairs of shoes, and has started raising quality standards while the Western industry continues to lose its share. He mentioned various ways the association had worked to implement measures supporting the leather, tanning and footwear industries.

Vice-chairman Giulio Tandura pointed out that tanning production has not diminished at a “macro” level, but stressed the precarious state of the situation that is no longer exclusive to workers. Mr Tandura believes the market has been reduced as there is increasing demand for high-standard technology. He believes that ‘added extras’ are the key.

Mr Gaia reminded those present that there would be no Tanning Tech 2006, but that it would return in conjunction with SIMAC in Bologna, April 17-20, 2007.