During the first six months of 2005, China’s exports of fur and fur goods increased to $510 million, a rise of 31%. Meanwhile imports fell by 5% to around $77 million.

Although the figures were positive, growth in exports slowed compared with the same period in 2004. An official from the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA) said that the industry had been impacted by commercial disputes between China and foreign countries and anti-fur campaigns that have been launched by some animal protection organisations.