The statistic from Guangzhou Customs shows that footwear exports from Guangdong province increased 18.9% in volume to 1.32 billion pairs and 9.9% in value to 3.43 billion U.S. dollars, and average price fell by 7.3% to 2.6 U.S. dollars during the first four months.

The exports for low price of shoes like rubber and plastic shoes saw a growth of 21.7% to 900 million pairs, accounting for 68% of total export in Guangdong province during the first four months. The exports for canvas shoes were higher the leather shoes, recording a 13.4% growth.

Exports to America and EU countries represent 46.2% of total footwear exports in Guangdong province, 3 percentage points less than previous year. 83.9% increase to ASEAN countries and 57.7% rising to Latin America.

The insiders said footwear exports will continue to rise for Guangdong province, but heavy dependence to OEM, low price competition will restrain the industry sustainable growth. They suggested that the industry should improve quality of shoes and transition of growth pattern for enhancing competitiveness and avoiding trade barriers.