India’s share in global exports of leather garments has increased between 2005—2009, even though the size of the world trade suffered due to the recession of 2008—09, according to government data.

India’s exports of leather garments went up from $ 33 million in value terms in 2005 to $ 428 million in 2009.

As a share of world’s imports the country’s contribution jumped from 8.68 per cent to 12.73 per cent in these four years.

However, the global imports of these products declined from $ 3.84 billion to $ 3.36 billion during the period, the official data showed.

According to the data compiled by the Council for Leather Exports, the leather garments exports are expected to cross $ one billion in 2013—14. These exports were estimated at $ 475 million in 2010—11 and are projected at $ 660 million in 2011—12.

As far as the total exports of leather and its products are concerned, Tamil Nadu is the biggest source of supplies accounting for 35 per cent of the country’s total overseas shipments.

Uttar Pradesh is the second largest supplier (28 per cent) followed by West Bengal (13 per cent) and Delhi (9.48 per cent).

Major markets for India’s leather exports include Germany, the US, UK and Italy. The country’s total leather exports are estimated at $ 3.8 billion for the year 2010—11. The major segments of the sector include tanning, footwear, garments, and accessories.

Employing 2.5 million people, the industry is divided into important clusters in Kanpur, Agra, Mumbai, Kolkatta, Chennai and Delhi.

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