Brazilian leather exports totalled $1.3 billion during the first nine months of 2010, 65% higher than during the same period last year. However, exports fell 17% to $127.7 million in September, according to the Brazilian Tannery Association (CICB).

Between January and September, the main markets for Brazilian leather exports were Italy with $284.7 million (a 21.8% stake and 63% growth), China with $ 281 million (a 21.51% stake and 47% increase), Hong Kong at $156.9 million (a 12% stake and 49% increase), and the US at $145.3 million (a 11.12% stake and 119% growth).

Germany ($40.3 million), Vietnam ($38 million), Mexico ($30.8 million), South Korea ($30.1 million), Indonesia ($28 4 million), the Netherlands ($25.8 million) and Thailand ($21.4 million) were other important destinations for Brazilian leather exports.

"Taking into account the last three months of this year, we come to the conclusion that it is unlikely that the leather sector can maintain the current pace of exporting $160 million per month due to currency effects, which have really punished the tanning industry," says CICB president, Wolfgang Goerlich.