Leather exports exceed $23 billion
According to data released by the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA), the Asian giant exported leather and leather goods worth $23.3 billion during the first eleven months of 2007 (January to November), up 9.13% from the $21.35 billion reported in the same period of 2006.
In terms of products, the ongoing trend towards higher-end goods remains evident as although leather footwear exports fell in terms of volume from 126.83 million pairs in the first 11 months of 2006 to 120.52 million pairs in the same period last year, the value of exports actually increased 9.3% to reach $8.751 billion, versus $8.007 billion.
However, certain sectors fared far from well during the period in question. For example leather garment exports fell a significant 21.2% to 3,235,000 pieces worth $1.219 billion, down from 4,096,000 pieces worth $1,547 billion in 2006.
Raw hide and skin exports also slipped falling from $2.599 million to $1.561 million and from $1.615 billion to $1.106 billion respectively.
In terms of imports, demand remains strong as China consumed foreign leather goods worth $6.443 billion in the 11-month period, 10.11% higher than the $5.851 billion imported in the same period of 2006.
