Millions in EU funding can help Nicaragua’s leather industry improve quality
05/11/2014
Called Pracams, the programme was launched in October 2012, but has taken time to bed in owing to negotiations relating to the free trade agreement that the EU signed with Central American countries in August 2013. Pracams will also encourage producers of cocoa, seafood, honey, plants and flowers to increase quality and improve their export potential.
The relatively developed status of the local leather industry there means a lot of Pracams’ focus on leather will be concentrated on Nicaragua. Principal aims include making sure production levels are high enough to guarantee a flow of exports to the EU at a competitive price, and making sure local producers can meet the quality and environmental demands of buyers in Europe.
In practical terms, manufacturers in Central America will have access to EU funding of €23.5 million to build up knowledge and skills in their organisations and to improve their access to laboratories and other testing facilities.
The programme will run until February 2017.
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