Homeworkers in South India's Leather Footwear Industry

It is not unusual for the leather shoes you see in high street stores to be made by women working at home.

Homeworking is a standard part of the production chain for certain types of leather footwear. Tamil Nadu, in South India, is a major producer of leather shoes for export, and thousands of homeworkers work in the industry, most commonly hand stitching uppers.

These homeworkers receive low pay, and no employment security, despite having a lifetime of experience working in the industry.

This briefing explores the role of homeworkers in Tamil Nadu's leather footwear industry, and outlines what action is necessary to strengthen their position and improve their working conditions.