ACLE concurrent fairs, CIFF and Moda Shanghai, offer an unparalleled platform for entering China's fast-growing domestic retail market for footwear products, leather garments, travelware, handbags and fashion accessories. Here's a selection of the fashion that was on offer this year....

Twice daily fashion shows entertained the crowd of visitors and revealed the next season's styles. The demand for exotic leathers - such as snake and ostritch - remains important, as demonstrated at the fashion show organised by Japanese company Narita Co Ltd.

From thh high end Japan made shoes to more mainstream sport styles, the entire scope of footwear was covered at the fairs. First-time exhibitor Hirokawa, a high-end shoe manufacture from Japan, chose China as its first country for export. Made with Italian sole, French leather uppers, lining from Bangladesh and a 'secret material' inner sole, Hirokawa shoes gather only the best components of the industry assembled with Japanese craftsmanship. "Retail price for such a pair of shoes range from RMB 5000 to 10,000", said president Masakazu Hirokawa who was looking for distributors and retailers in China.

Catchy Portuguese brand Fly London's aim at CIFF is to reach retailers, licensers and distributors. "We have been approached by small retailers," commented the company's Asia distributor, John Chen.

Returning Portuguese exhibitor Tatuaggi, overcomes the price obstacle by selling Italiann quality shoes at Portuguese prices. The brand already sells in first-tier cities in China but General Manager and designer Jose Alberto's aim is penetrate further the Chinese market and extend its reach to smaller cities.

What Participants Say...

"We are first time exhibitors. Our main purpose is to learn about the Chinese market. We are very impressed. We have a small booth but we attracted big buyers".
       - Exhibitor Nasir Khan, Jenny's Shoes, Bangladesh

"Moda Shanghai has a comprehensive product range and I have successfully met many potential suppliers and business partners here. I plan on visiting again next year".
       - Buyer Jenny Li, LG Fashion, China

"I  like CIFF because it consists of many footwear styles and catgories. It is also more professional than other trade fairs in China. I can find everything I need and I am very happy with  my visit".
       - Buyer Que Yu Cheng, Shanghai Overseas Import & Export Co, China