Leather is a popular material used all over the world for making things like shoes, bags, and jackets because it’s strong and looks good. The largest leather-producing countries make the most leather, showing us who leads the way in this big industry. They use special skills, new ideas, and care about the environment too.
In this article, we are going to learn about the Top 10 Leather Producing Countries in the World in detail.
Top 10 Leather Producing Countries in the World
Here’s the list of the top 10 leather-producing countries in the world :
| Rank | Country | Leather Exports Value (2023) | Global Export Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | $74 billion | 25% |
| 2 | Brazil | $28.3 billion | 9.5% |
| 3 | Russia | Over $21 billion | N/A |
| 4 | India | $19 billion | 6.4% |
| 5 | Italy | $16.3 billion | 5.5% |
| 6 | Argentina | $13.4 billion | 4.5% |
| 7 | South Korea | $12 billion | 4% |
| 8 | Turkey | $10.4 billion | 3.5% |
| 9 | Vietnam | $8.9 billion | 3% |
| 10 | Pakistan | $7.5 billion | 2.5% |
This table reflects the significant role these countries play in the global leather industry, contributing to a diverse range of leather products and exports worldwide. Let’s learn about each of these countries in detail.
10. Pakistan
Pakistan is a key player in the global leather industry, contributing 2.5% to the world’s leather exports. The country’s leather sector is particularly strong in the Punjab region, known for its cottage industry. In 2020, Pakistan exported $7.5 billion worth of leather goods, showcasing its significant impact on the global market.
- The leather industry in Pakistan is supported by a large livestock population, producing millions of hides and skins annually.
- Pakistani leather is renowned for its quality, especially in the production of leather garments, footwear, and accessories.
- The country has seen a consistent rise in the export price of leather over the past five years, indicating a growing demand for its leather products on the international stage.
9. Vietnam
Vietnam accounts for about 3% of global leather exports, with a total value of $8.9 billion. The country has become a manufacturing hub for major brands due to its affordable skilled labor. Vietnam’s strategic expansion of its leather sector has made it a significant exporter of leather goods.
- Vietnam sources leather from neighboring countries, enhancing its production capabilities.
- The nation’s leather industry is expected to see a compound annual growth rate of 9.53% between 2023 and 2028.
- Investments in tanning factories and manufacturing facilities have positioned Vietnam to climb higher in the ranks of the world’s leather exporters.
8. Turkey
Turkey contributes 3.5% to the global leather export market, with sales reaching $10.4 billion in 2023. The country’s rich history in leathercraft translates into innovative and high-quality leather products. Turkey’s strategic location near Central Asia provides access to a large population of sheep, enhancing its leather export capabilities.
- Turkey exports a variety of leather products, including upholstery, clothing, and shoes.
- The nation aims to move up the value chain, focusing on exporting more finished goods.
- Turkey’s leather industry benefits from a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, making it a key player in the global market.
7. South Korea
South Korea, contributing 4% to the world’s leather exports, has built a robust leather industry despite its limited natural resources. The country’s exports totaled $12 billion, driven by advanced technology and a focus on high-quality finished products. South Korea’s strategic import of hides from around the world supports its diverse leather product range.
- The nation is known for its leather shoes, clothing, bags, gloves, and auto upholstery.
- South Korea’s emphasis on contemporary design and reliable quality has made it a supplier to major international brands.
- The market for luxury leather goods in South Korea is expected to grow significantly, reflecting the country’s strong position in the global leather industry.
6. Argentina
Argentina plays a significant role in the global leather export market, contributing $13.4 billion or 4.5% of the total exports. The country is one of the top producers of beef, providing a vast supply of raw materials for the leather industry. Argentina’s exports are renowned for their quality, particularly in wet blues and bovine skins.
- The nation’s leather industry benefits from advanced technical education and production techniques.
- Argentina exports a wide range of leather products, including footwear and furniture.
- The country is working to realize the full export potential of its finished leather goods, aiming to move beyond raw hide exports.
5. Italy
Italy is a powerhouse in the global leather industry, contributing 5.5% of the world’s leather exports with a value of $16.3 billion. Known for its high-end leather products, Italy is home to some of the most prestigious luxury fashion brands. The country excels in producing designer shoes, handbags, jackets, and upholstery.
- Italian leather is synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and luxury.
- The nation imports raw hides to support its thriving leather industry, focusing on finished products with high design value.
- Italy’s success in the leather market is attributed to strong R&D, skilled artisans, and a robust value chain.
4. India
India contributes 6.4% to the global leather exports, with a total value of $19 billion in 2023. The country is a significant exporter of bovine and small ruminant skins, along with a variety of finished leather products. India’s leather industry benefits from cheap skilled labor and a strong focus on quality and environmental standards.
- India exports leather goods, including gloves, clothing, shoes, and accessories.
- The nation’s leather clusters in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh have supported its export growth.
- India aims to increase value addition to boost export growth, enhancing its competitiveness on the global stage.
3. Russia
Russia’s leather industry has a long history, exporting goods worth over $21 billion. The country is known for its craftsmanship in producing Polish leather, boots, and fur. Russia’s leather market is expected to grow, with a focus on luxury leather goods.
- The country procures most of its cow hides domestically while importing small ruminant skins.
- Russian leather is used in a variety of products, including upholstery and designer clothing.
- Technical training centers and design colleges in Russia contribute to the skilled workforce, supporting the leather industry’s growth.
2. Brazil
Brazil, accounting for 9.5% of the world’s leather exports, exported leather goods worth $28.3 billion in 2023. As one of the top meat producers, Brazil has a plentiful supply of raw materials for its leather industry. The country is renowned for its environmentally friendly production processes and cutting-edge technology in tanneries.
- Brazilian leather is used in a wide range of products, from shoes to bovine hides.
- The country’s leather industry benefits from a massive cattle population, providing a vast supply of raw materials.
- Brazil’s footwear components market is thriving, producing shoes for various export markets.
1. China
China dominates the global leather export market, accounting for 25% of worldwide exports with over $74 billion in 2023. The country’s vast production capacity is supported by a skilled workforce, reliable supply networks, and excellent infrastructure. China sources both locally produced leather and imports from developing countries, making it a key supplier for international fashion and leather brands.
- China manufactures a wide array of leather goods, including footwear, handbags, wallets, belts, and clothing.
- The nation’s leather industry benefits from cost savings and superior technical and design capabilities.
- China’s growth in the luxury leather goods segment is expected to continue, reflecting its leading position in the global leather market.
Read More :
- Top 10 Largest Leather Exporting Countries in the World
- Top 10 Clothing Manufacturing Countries in the World
- Top 10 Garment Exporting Countries in the World
- Top 10 Largest Textile Exporting Countries in the World
FAQs on Top 10 Leather Producing Countries in the World
Which country is the largest exporter of leather?
China is the largest exporter of leather, accounting for 25% of worldwide exports.
What are the top 3 leather producing countries in the world?
The top 3 leather producing countries are China, Brazil, and Russia.
How much is the leather export market worth globally?
The global leather export market is worth over $74 billion, with China leading the exports.
Which country is known for high-quality leather production?
Italy is renowned for its high-quality leather production, especially in luxury goods.
Are there any major leather exporters in South America?
Brazil is a major leather exporter in South America, known for its environmentally friendly production.
Which Asian country is a significant player in the leather industry?
India is a significant player in the leather industry, contributing 6.4% to global leather exports.