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Prada Seals India Pact for €800 Kolhapuri-Inspired Sandals, Launch Set for 2026

A pact with state-backed artisan groups converts a past appropriation row into an India-made, training-led collaboration.

Overview

  • Prada signed a memorandum of understanding with LIDCOM and LIDKAR at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai to manufacture the limited line in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
  • About 2,000 pairs will be produced and sold for roughly €800 each, with a global debut in February 2026 across 40 Prada stores and online.
  • The collaboration includes a three-year skills program for artisans, featuring local training and short placements at the Prada Group Academy in Italy.
  • Lorenzo Bertelli said the project will cost several million euros and that artisans will be fairly remunerated, with some implementation details still being finalised.
  • Indian officials endorsed the deal, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal pointing to a potential $1 billion export opportunity for Kolhapuri chappals, which have held a GI tag since 2019.