Local shoemakers in Dongguan is face of bankruptcies in view of the continuous drop in its footwear exports.

According to the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA), shoe export values fell 10.6% in January and February, having fallen 15.9% during the first ten months of last year.

The CLIA claims high production costs and labour shortages are driving footwear manufacturers in Vietnam and India, where energy costs are said to be lower and hide prices more affordable.