SATRA launches expanded Asia Board

Reporting on the first meeting of an important footwear industry body, in addition to SATRA’s attendance at other events in the region.

SATRA has marked an important milestone in its engagement with members across Asia by holding the inaugural meeting of its newly expanded Asia Pacific Advisory Board (AAB) in Vietnam.

The advisory group has evolved from SATRA’s long-established China Advisory Board (CAB), which first began meeting in 2005 to provide a forum for key members in the region to discuss developments and challenges affecting the footwear industry. Following a review of the organisation’s growing presence across Asia, the decision was taken to broaden the geographical scope of the board, resulting in its redefinition as the SATRA Asia Pacific Advisory Board.

Wider regional representation

The first meeting of the new AAB took place on 6th July 2026 in Vietnam, and was chaired by SATRA chief operating officer Michael Bodsworth. The expanded board now includes members from China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Cambodia, reflecting the increasingly diverse nature of SATRA’s membership throughout the region.

Comprising 12 invited representatives, the AAB brings together some of SATRA’s longest-serving members. Collectively, they represent a broad cross-section of the industry, including footwear manufacturers, shoe retailers, tanners, leather suppliers, testing organisations and academia. The board’s primary purpose is to help SATRA gain a deeper understanding of regional developments, enabling the organisation to tailor its services and strategic support more effectively to the needs of members across the Asia Pacific area.

Focus on artificial intelligence

A key theme of the inaugural meeting was the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) within the footwear sector. Attendees received updates on the continuing development of SATRA’s services before taking part in discussions covering AI technologies and developments in footwear.

Among the meeting’s highlights was a presentation by AAB vice chairman James Ho (general manager of Golden Chang Group), entitled ‘Driving manufacturing excellence – AI in the footwear industry – applications and benefits in product development, costing, planning and manufacturing’. The presentation explored how AI technologies can be applied throughout the footwear production process to improve efficiency, decision-making and overall manufacturing performance.

This topic was further examined by Associate Professor Dr Zhou Jin of Sichuan University, who delivered the talk ‘AI-empowered for the footwear industry: opportunities and methodologies’. His presentation considered emerging opportunities for the adoption of AI and the practical approaches companies can take when implementing these technologies.

Positive response

The inaugural gathering attracted a high level of participation and was reported to have been very well received by those attending. The meeting also provided members with valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, discuss common challenges and strengthen professional relationships within the region.

SATRA is pleased to express gratitude to Kimo Liang – president of Wei Hua Shoes – for hosting the event and supporting the launch of the new advisory board, in addition to thanking company general manager Leon Liang, who worked hard to make the event such a success.

Looking ahead, meetings of the SATRA Asia Pacific Advisory Board will be held on an annual basis, creating a regular platform for dialogue between SATRA and its members throughout the region.

Supporting the footwear industry across Asia

SATRA COO Michael Bodsworth attended the 43rd International Footwear Conference in Phnom Penh, Cambodia – seen here with Joyce Liu (general manager of Hwa Long Factory, vice chairlady of the Cambodian Footwear Association and a member of the SATRA AAB), and Anthony Mak, general manager of SATRA China

While visiting the region, Michael Bodsworth also represented SATRA at the 43rd International Footwear Conference in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. SATRA is a member of the Cambodian Footwear Association, and the conference provided a further opportunity to engage with industry stakeholders and discuss key issues affecting footwear manufacturing.

Mr Bodsworth also attended the 26th International Shoes & Leather Exhibition – Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the region’s leading footwear industry events. During the exhibition, he delivered a presentation entitled ‘How to assess the comfort of footwear’, sharing insights into footwear performance evaluation and the factors that contribute to wearer comfort.

The SATRA team welcomed visitors to the organisation’s stand at the 26th International Shoes & Leather Exhibition in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Together, these activities underline SATRA’s continued commitment to strengthening relationships throughout Asia and supporting members as they respond to technological change and evolving market demands.

The photograph at the top of this article shows members of the newly expanded SATRA Asia Pacific Advisory Board (AAB) gathered for its inaugural meeting in Vietnam.

Publishing Data