After a four-decade hiatus, India’s leather industry, especially from Uttar Pradesh, is gearing to revive major trade ties with Russia. A 22-member delegation from the Council for Leather Exports (CLE) will visit Moscow in December to explore joint ventures and commercial opportunities, boosting this critical export sector.
India’s leather sector, a key economic driver in Uttar Pradesh’s industrial belt, is set to rekindle its trade relationship with Russia after nearly 40 years. The move comes as exporters seek alternatives amid US-imposed tariffs that have hindered access to Western markets.
The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) is leading a 22-member delegation to Russia from December 8-10, aiming to forge partnerships and strengthen market access. CLE’s regional chairman Asad Iraqi highlighted that the delegation will focus on joint ventures and technical collaborations with Russian firms.
Historically, cities like Kanpur were significant leather suppliers to Russia, and the industry hopes to restore this momentum. Upcoming meetings between Indian exporters and Russian buyers in Delhi plan to refine supply chains and broaden exports.
Uttar Pradesh alone accounts for a ₹1.86 lakh crore export value, with 19% previously reliant on the US market. The leather industry accounts for roughly ₹6,000-6,500 crore annually from UP alone. The revived ties with Russia come as a strategic pivot to stabilize the business amid global trade shifts.
Key Highlights:
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India aims to re-enter Russia’s leather market after 40 years.
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CLE leading 22-member delegation to Moscow, December 8-10.
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Focus on joint ventures, technical cooperation, and expanded trade.
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Kanpur and UP are major leather export hubs, hit by US tariffs.
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Leather exports contribute significantly to UP’s economy and India’s foreign trade.
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Meetings planned in Delhi to align supply chain and buyer expectations.
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Industry expects revitalized bilateral trade to boost leather sector growth.
Source: Free Press Journal, The Statesman, The Times of India, Council for Leather Exports