US and Brazil’s falling hides exports back less-leather theories
The US and Brazil, two of the biggest hides exporters, have reported declining numbers for 2015, supporting theories of the declining use of leather, particularly in the footwear industry.
Record leather prices in 2014 led many mid-range manufacturers to swap to faux leathers, say market observers, and the falling price of oil has meant they are reluctant to swap back as the plastic-based alternatives are getting even cheaper.
In the first 11 months of 2015, tanners and traders in the US exported 24.5 million hides to customers overseas, bringing in revenue of just under $2.1 billion, according to the US Hide, Skin and Leather Association (USHSLA).
Compared to the January-November period in 2014, the figures indicate a decline in volume overall of 18.3%. In terms of value, US hide exports fell in value by 18.7% year on year.
Brazilian exports of hides and skins fell 23% to $2.3 billion in 2015, while the volume fell 4% to 33 million pieces. This compares with the $2.9 billion that was earned from skins (salted, wet blue, crust and finished) in 2014, and the $2.5 billion earned in 2013.
