Indian leather exports reach $2 billion

05/01/2005

The Indian leather industry has reported positive results for 2004, recording exports of $2 billion and a 10% increase in domestic sales. Footwear saw the largest growth with sales increasing by some 30%. The turnaround in the industry’s fortunes has been largely attributed to government incentives, national and foreign policies, and a development package for the industry. Energised by these results the industry now hopes to double exports by 2010.

 

However, despite the positive results, problems still remain. The supply of raw leather is becoming increasingly tighter with India forced to import raw materials, thus causing India to lose some of its advantage over its main competitors. 

On a positive note, the industry in Chennai has stated that it has not suffered any ill effects following the tsunami disaster that left 200 people in the city dead.