Overview of the Leather Industry
The leather industry is a global leader in manufacturing. Leather products are versatile, used for shoes, clothing, furniture, and cars. Shoe production consumes the most leather globally.
Chromium in Industries
Chromium is an important heavy metal used in industries like leather and electroplating. Over 170,000 tons of chromium waste enter the environment yearly.
Global Leather Industry Trends
In 2023, the global leather industry will continue thriving, with developing countries dominating leather exports with low costs. Hides and skins enabled production in 2020.
Top Leather Producers and Markets
- Top leather producers: Italy, China, and Brazil.
- Leather consumption: Italy exported the most leather in 2016.
- Proximity advantages: Geographical proximity aids supply chains.
- Leather market sources: Most leather in the U.S. and Europe is from China, India, Brazil, the U.S., and Argentina.