According to figures released by the Confederation of Brazilian Hides and Skins Industries (CICB) the South American country’s leather exports reached $552.44 million in the first quarter, 37% higher than the $403.16 million reported in the comparable period of 2006.

The improved exports have been attributed to higher sales in new target markets such as Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam and the continued efforts of a promotional programme to expand leather exports, organised by CICB and the Brazilian Export and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex).