Expectations grow ahead of the next FIMEC in March 2026, in Brazil
The 49th edition of FIMEC will take place on March 3, 4 and 5, 2026, at the Fenac exhibition halls in Novo Hamburgo, Rio Grande do Sul, and will bring together the entire leather and footwear supply chain under the theme “Activate a new perspective.”
The organizers announced that the International Trade Fair for Leather, Materials, Chemicals, Components, Machinery and Equipment for Footwear and Tanning will resume its role as a central meeting point for the sector, bringing together companies, manufacturers, suppliers, specialists and professional visitors. The proposal will focus on showcasing trends and solutions linked to an evolving market, with technological innovation and sustainability as key pillars.
According to the event promoters, the footwear and leather industry has demonstrated adaptability in recent times, and the fair will seek to reflect this dynamic by presenting the most relevant developments, from production to logistics.
The next edition of the Brazilian supply fair will occupy an exhibition area of more than 10,000 square meters. Expectations include attracting around 20,000 visitors and featuring close to 400 exhibitors, creating a space that facilitates direct contact between domestic and international companies.
Fenac authorities stated that they expect representatives from approximately 20 Brazilian states and 40 countries. They also noted that Novo Hamburgo will become a global footwear hub during the event.
“FIMEC is the ideal setting to consolidate this movement, strengthen exchanges and open doors to new business opportunities,” they added.
The program will include various initiatives aimed at expanding interaction among industry professionals. Event organizers announced that the fair will feature “silent conferences,” new business spaces, collective areas with Latin American participation, as well as technical visits to factories and tourist routes.
Among the confirmations already announced is the return of FIMEC Studio, an initiative focused on offering content related to trends and innovation resources.
In addition, the CICB Sustainability Forum will once again take place during FIMEC, scheduled for the afternoon of March 4. This will be the fourth consecutive edition of the forum integrated into the official fair program.
The continuity of this initiative highlights the collaboration between the Centre for the Brazilian Tanning Industry (CICB) and Fenac, which share the objective of fostering business opportunities, promoting innovation and bringing together influential industry players to discuss strategic topics.
As is traditional, a special area of the exhibition venue will host the “Concept Factory,” open to visitors, where all footwear and manufactured goods production processes will be shown in real time. Attendees will be able to observe new technologies and operations carried out by qualified personnel.
From the organization, they emphasized: “It is an extremely beneficial event to attract more visitors to FIMEC and, especially, to further integrate the entire leather sector.” In this way, the fair will provide an appropriate space to reflect on relevant industry issues and promote cooperation throughout the productive chain.
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