Improving traceability within the leather industry is a critical step towards enhancing prices and meeting European standards. AHSLEA’S pilot traceability system supported by a government traceability grant program achieved a significant milestone by implementing an inline stamping and tracing system for cattle hides.
Andrew Hassall, managing director of Geelong Leather and an Australian Hide Skin and Leather Exporters Association director, spoke to Australian Community Media and emphasised the need to trace hides to birth farms due to new EU anti-deforestation legislation.
He says this is vital for maintaining access to European markets, where traceability is increasingly valued, driving premium prices and benefiting both farmers and manufacturers amidst fluctuating hide prices and shifting demand trends.
