Ethiopian leather, leather products enjoy high demand in Chinese markets

19 September 2006

ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopian hides and skin products are enjoying high demand in Chinese markets, the Ethiopian Leather and Leather Products Producers Association said.

Association Chairman, Abdissa Adugna told ENA yesterday that thanks to governments attention to the sector, the products are in high demand in Chinese as well as European markets.

According to Abdissa the 2.6 million USD income obtained in the 1997 budget year has reached 14 million USD last budget year.

He said the association has awarded trophy for the Ethiopian embassy in Beijing for its contribution to promote the products in the Chinese markets through organizing exhibitions and trade fairs.

The government’s permission for the importation of machinery and raw materials duty free has also greatly contributed to the increased demand for Ethiopian products in the international market.

The chairman further indicated that the association is providing awareness raising education for farmers and business people engaged in the sector Abdissa said the association has created strong working relations with Ethiopian Leather and Leather Products Technology Training Institute with a view to producing quality products.

(ENA)