Brazil footwear trade turns to deficit in July

footwear industry trade deficit imports vs exports Abicalçados trade barriers

Brazil's footwear sector experienced a trade deficit in July, with imports reaching US$ 66 million compared to US$ 62 million in exports. This marks the first time the trade balance has inverted in nearly 30 years.

Data compiled by Abicalçados shows that between January and July, footwear imports totaled US$ 373 million, a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Imports from China specifically reached US$ 31 million during this period. Conversely, export revenues have faced significant declines, including a 25% drop in sales to the United States and a 58% drop to Argentina.

Abicalçados executive president Haroldo Ferreira stated that imports are occupying market space that could otherwise be filled by domestic industry and job creation. The association is calling for trade barriers against Asian products. The Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services noted it has not received formal requests for import quotas but will maintain a dialogue with the sector.