A new support programme by the South African government for the automotive industry will include leather, according to a report by the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA).

Trade and industry minister Rob Davies said the products including leather interiors were vulnerable because an earlier programme provided them with a higher level of support.

Overall, automotive component exports from South Africa increased by 10.6% in 2010 to reach $3.9 billion, with leather seat parts accounting for 9.4% of this total.

The minister said the new programme would be complete within weeks and would come into effect in 2013.

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