According to figures released by the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA),
China’s leather sector posted an overall increase of 2.4% in exports for the full year 2006 to reach $23.324 billion from the $22.773 billion reported in 2005. Footwear exports increased to $8.774 billion from to $8.065 billion in 2005, travelgoods rose to $8.703 billion from $7.311 billion and fur garment exports improved to $488.513 million from $1.872 billion, leather gloves exports rose to $871.253 million from $860.588 million, and exports of leather balls reached $244.729 million compared with $179.040 million. On a less positive note, leather garment exports declined to $1.643 billion from $2.275 billion.

The country also exported raw hides worth $3.468 million, up from $2.292
million and skins valued at $1.775 billion, up from $1.563 billion. Footwear component exports improved from $618.980 million in 2005 to reach $798.76 million whilst leather equipment and machinery increased to $40.133 million compared with $23.439 million in the prior year.

In terms of imports, the country imported fewer leather goods at $5.582 billion, down 13.31% compared with the $6.439 billion imported in the previous 12-month period.