APLF Leather concluded in Hong Kong, following the Leather Supply Chain Conference held the day prior (11 March) under the theme “The Great Leather Reset.” The program brought together brands, tanneries, NGOs and technology providers to examine sustainability, design and production innovation across the sector. Sessions addressed AI and digital twins in tanning operations, durability…
AHSLEA has released the results of its second Sustainability Benchmark Survey, providing an updated snapshot of industry-wide sustainability performance and progress since the 2024 baseline. Aligned closely with the AHSLEA Sustainability Framework, the 2025 survey assessed members against a comprehensive set of commitments and metrics, with tailored surveys deployed to reflect differences in data maturity…
The 39th India International Leather Fair (IILF) was held in Chennai from 1–3 February, bringing together key players across the global leather supply chain. On the eve of the fair, the Council for Leather Exports (CLE) outlined an ambitious growth trajectory, targeting sector turnover of USD 50 billion by FY2029–30, up from USD 24.6 billion…
The 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), held in Belém, Brazil from 10–21 November 2025, brought supply-chain sustainability, traceability and deforestation risk firmly into focus. Discussions and publications around the conference highlighted both ongoing challenges and the regulatory and industry responses shaping the leather sector. Traceability and deforestation risks under scrutiny Reports released during…
The Australian hide, skin and leather industry features several family businesses that have operated through multiple generations. Along with the desire to retain intergenerational knowledge, is a drive to modernise the process and meet changing customer needs. This evolution has been taking place over the last four decades, operating under Australia’s strict environmental protection regulations…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…