Micaela Topper on meeting global challenges

International Leather Maker (ILM) featured an exclusive interview with AHSLEA member and ICHSLTA President Micaela Topper in their September/October issue. Micaela discusses the leather industry’s evolving sustainability landscape and Australia’s competitive advantages in global markets. Looking to the future, she has a message for young professionals and new businesses interested in sustainable materials: “There’s a…

Our commitment to smarter water management

As part of AHSLEA’s Sustainability Framework, we’re spotlighting water management initiatives that minimise consumption while maximising recovery and reuse. From strict no-drainage policies and specialised treatment protocols to rainwater harvesting and innovative reuse strategies, our member sites are setting strong benchmarks in responsible water stewardship. By benchmarking usage, setting reduction targets and ensuring all wastewater…

Strengthening our supply chain transparency through our commitment to traceability

The Australian Hide, Skin and Leather Exporters’ Association is strengthening supply chain transparency through our commitment to traceability and domestic procurement excellence. This month, we’re spotlighting our Supply Chain Management initiatives. Our member sites exclusively source hides and skins from Australian suppliers, strengthening domestic industries while ensuring quality and reliability throughout our value chain. Driven…

Germany’s Landmark High Court Ruling on ‘Apple Leather’

A landmark ruling from Germany’s Higher Regional Court of Cologne has confirmed what we’ve long advocated: leather means leather – not plastic, not fruit waste, not synthetic alternatives. The court ruled that Mina Merchandising GmbH can no longer market synthetic products as “apple leather,” following legal action by the German Leather Industry Association (VDL). This…

Labour standards and local employment: industry action

We’re proud to continue sharing the progress of AHSLEA’s Sustainability Framework — a roadmap toward building a more ethical, inclusive, and community-focused sector. Our commitment goes beyond environmental responsibility to encompass the people who power our industry and the communities where we operate. This month, we’re spotlighting Labour Standards & Local Employment. Discover how the Australian…

Greenhouse gas emissions and energy: steps the industry is taking now

The Australian hide, skin, and leather industry’s Sustainability Framework is a major step toward shaping a more transparent, responsible, and future-ready sector. Our goal? To strengthen the industry’s long-term sustainability by aligning with evolving market expectations and consumer demand for clarity across economic, social, and environmental performance. This Framework maps out what a sustainable industry…

AHSLEA Celebrates World Leather Day

The Australian Hide Skin and Leather Exporters Association (AHSLEA) proudly joins the global leather community in celebrating World Leather Day on Saturday, April 26. This year’s theme, “Beyond the Surface”, led by Leather Naturally, invites a deeper exploration of the transparency, sustainability, and longevity of leather production. AHSLEA is placing a strong focus on showcasing…

AHSLEA’s Sustainability Framework Promotion

AHSLEA took a major step toward a more sustainable future last year with the development of a comprehensive sustainability framework. The initiative reinforces the industry’s commitment to economic, social, and environmental responsibility. With growing expectations around transparency, both local and global markets now look closely at environmental performance, supply chains, societal contributions, and workplace conditions…

Benchmarking Survey Report

AHSLEA conducted its first sustainability benchmark survey of its members between 17October and 1 November 2024. The survey was open to all members and comprised of 35 questions based on the AHSELA Sustainability Framework. The framework confirms the industry’s commitment to economic, social, and environmental responsibility. PURPOSE OF FIRST SUSTAINABILITY BENCHMARK SURVEY To deliver an…

Hong Kong Leather Fair 2025

AHSLEA was once again part of APLF Hong Kong (12-14 March) where industry professionals gathered to discuss leather prices, trends, and innovations while making the most of networking opportunities. APLF is a key global industry calendar event that brings together businesses across leather, materials, and fashion. The Fair connects tanneries, suppliers, designers, and buyers worldwide…