Spanish leather goods exports continue to flourish

22/03/2007
 
According to the Spanish Association of Leather Goods, Travel Articles and Similar Items Manufacturers (ASEFMA), the Spanish leather goods industry performed well in 2006, both in the domestic and international markets.

Exports increased 14% to €362.2 million with particularly high growth in the volume of Spanish goods exported to Turkey, Poland, Venezuela, Austria and Cuba, as well as new markets such as Russia and South Africa.

France remained the country’s largest export destination, generating a value of almost €120 million, a 4% rise year-on-year, and accounting for a third of Spain’s international sales. Portugal was in second place with exports totalling €48 million, whilst the UK and Japan generated €21 million. Imports also continued to grow with China and India the main suppliers.

The association attributed the significant growth in the domestic market to the widespread application of quality standards, high quality design, extensive training for employees and advanced technology. It also believes that the rise in per capita income has played a part, leading to increased demand for higher-quality products in all segments of the market. Furthermore, shoe shops and fashion boutiques are increasingly inclined to sell bags, belts and other leather goods to expand their ranges and boost sales.