Leather industry to up global share

India's share in the global leather industry is set to increase from the current 2.50% to 4.50% in the next 3 to 4 years.

India's share in the global leather industry is set to increase from the current 2.50 per cent to 4.50 per cent in the next 3 to 4 years, as a result of several countries sourcing material from the country, an industry expert said on Monday.

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Talking to reporters, Council for Leather Exports Chairman M Rafeeque Ahmed said the industry body along with Indian Leather Garments Association has tied up with the National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi, to set up a leather design centre to increase quality of locally produced leather garments and goods.

Council Executive Director Elangovan stressed the need for having closer ties with the Italian market and the creation of an Indian Leather Desk in Milan, to help Indian firms access that country's market.

The Union Government has asked the Council to seek investments from abroad and also bring in technological advancement from overseas, to tap the huge potential and opportunity that the Indian leather industry offered, he said.

The Council will be visiting Brazil and Portugal in this regard. "The focus on India is extremely good at present. If we don't tap the opportunity now, we will miss the bus," he said.

Rafeeque said the leather desk in Milan, will promote investments, joint venture colloborations between Italian and Indian firms and also carry out various activities like marketing for Indian members,technological colloborations etc.