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  • Brazil Exports $97.7 Million in Leather in Feb 2025 While Morocco Faces $300 Million Leather Industry Loss Due to Eid Al Adha Sacrifice Cancellation

Brazil Exports $97.7 Million in Leather in Feb 2025 While Morocco Faces $300 Million Leather Industry Loss Due to Eid Al Adha Sacrifice Cancellation

PrimeAsia Leather Expands Vietnam Tannery to 8 Million Square Feet Monthly Capacity | Spain’s Leather Industry Faces a Challenging 2024 | Bangladesh Leather and Leather Goods Exports Increased by 11.6% to $88.4 Million in February 2025 | Apex Group Chairman Syed Manzur Elahi Passes Away at 83

Good Morning & Welcome to our weekly newsletter! Here, we bring you the entire week's global news, insights, market research & analysis, expert insights and facts from the global "leather, footwear, and leather goods" industry.

In a simplified and easy-to-understand manner, saving you time while keeping you informed & updated under 5 minutes every Sunday at 11am.

In case you missed it, here’s a look at what happened in the Global Leather, Footwear & Leather Goods Industry last week.

LEATHER INDUSTRY NEWS

Spain’s leather industry struggled in 2024, with exports dropping across all segments. Raw hides fell by 6.5%, semi-finished leather plunged 31.7%, and finished leather declined 7.1%). Italy, Spain’s top market, cut imports by 18.7%. Despite challenges, employment in the sector showed six months of growth, though still below pre-pandemic levels.

The 41st APLF concluded in Hong Kong with 600+ exhibitors from 40 countries. Sustainability, innovation, and market trends took center stage. Key leadership changes were announced, and attendees made the most of networking and business deals. APLF remains a top global platform for the leather, footwear, and fashion industries.

The leather and leather goods industry continues its upward trend, recording an 11.6% growth in export earnings during July-February FY25. According to EPB data, the sector earned $88.47 million in February, up from $79.26 million in FY24. With total export earnings reaching $32.94 billion, the leather industry remains a key contributor to economic growth.

Morocco has canceled Eid Al Adha’s ritual sacrifice due to a prolonged drought, marking the fourth suspension since independence. The decision is expected to cause a 20 billion dirham economic loss, hitting sectors like leather, livestock, and butchery. The leather industry alone, which processes up to 5 million sheep skins annually, could lose up to 3 billion dirhams, impacting 50,000 workers.

Brazil’s leather exports saw mixed trends in early 2025. February’s exports totaled $97.7 million, with volumes rising but values dipping slightly. China remained the top market, while Italy and Vietnam showed growth. Wet blue leather was the only segment to gain in both value and volume. Industry players await March’s trade fair for market clarity.

PrimeAsia Leather has expanded its Vietnam facility, boosting production to 8 million sq. ft. per month. The new plant features automated production, advanced finishing lines, and enhanced sustainability measures to meet global sports brand demands. Alongside this, PrimeAsia unveiled a bold rebrand under the theme "Accelerate Ahead," focusing on design, efficiency, and sustainability.

Apex Group Chairman Syed Manzur Elahi Passes Away at 83

Apex group chairman and former government advisor Syed Manzur Elahi has passed away at the age of 83. He breathed his last in a Singapore hospital in the early hours of March 12 after battling age-related health issues.

FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY NEWS

The Goa Directorate of Education has mandated a shift from leather to canvas shoes in school uniforms, citing environmental concerns. The directive states that leather production involves harmful chemicals, while synthetic alternatives also contribute to pollution. Canvas shoes, already used for sports, are promoted as eco-friendly, durable, and cost-effective.

The Brazilian footwear industry started 2025 with strong export growth, shipping 21 million pairs in the first two months, generating USD 174.23 million a 14.7% rise in volume and 2.7% in revenue. Argentina surpassed the U.S. as the top importer in February. Imports also increased, with Vietnam leading in supply.

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Written & Published by Arshad | Leathernews.org

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