According to Paresh Rajda, chairman of India’s Council for Leather Exports (Eastern region), leathergoods exports from the eastern part of the country are likely to fall this year. He claims leathergoods exports could fall by as much as 20-25% as the effects of the economic downturn continue to be felt. Kolkata exports are expected to be particularly hard hit in line with falling demand.

According to Mr Rajda, leathergoods exports from the eastern region grew 12% year-on-year to $584.2 million in 2008-09. Handbags and wallets accounted for almost 53% of this total, reaching $309.5 million in 2008-09. Leather glove exports accounted for around 35% at $214.4 million, while leather jacket and garment exports totalled around $64.9 million.

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