Ostrich leather exporters hope for breakthrough in US tariff talks
06/08/2025
The tariffs, first introduced under the Trump administration, could significantly affect exports from Oudtshoorn-based Cape Karoo International (CKI), which supplies ostrich leather to major US cowboy boot manufacturers including Justin Boot and Lucchese.
CKI says US sales account for around 20% of its leather exports. Managing director Francois de Wet said American manufacturers rely entirely on South African ostrich leather, as there is no domestic alternative.
The ostrich industry is a key economic contributor in South Africa’s Klein Karoo region, generating R578.8 million (US$32 million) in exports in 2021 across leather, meat, and feathers.
South African Ostrich Business Chamber CEO Piet Kleyn expressed confidence that a favourable agreement can still be reached. Talks between South African and US trade officials are continuing.
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