Brazil’s exports of hides, skins and leather in the first quarter of 2026 had a total value of US$267 million. This is down by 10.6% compared to the same three-month period last year.

Tanning industry representative body CICB said China was the most important market for Brazil’s leather exports in the quarter, with its investment in the material down only slightly, while purchases from customers in the US and Italy showed heavier falls.

“Overall, the situation is one of weakening overseas demand, increased price pressure and increased dependence on the Chinese market,” CICB said. “This points to the need for us to diversify the export markets we ship to.”

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