Agribusiness Exports from Bangladesh: Cultivating Global Opportunities
Bangladesh Leather Industry: A Rising Star in Global Exports
August 1, 2025
Business,Economy
Overview:
Bangladesh’s leather and leather goods industry has emerged as one of the country’s most promising export sectors after ready-made garments (RMG). Known for quality raw materials, competitive prices, and an increasingly skilled workforce, Bangladesh is on the path to becoming a global leather hub.
Export Snapshot (FY 2023–24):
- Total Export Earnings: USD 1.12 billion
- Growth Rate: ~8.56% over the previous fiscal year
- Top Export Segments:
- Finished leather
- Footwear (leather and synthetic)
- Leather bags, belts, wallets
- Sporting gloves and accessories
- Finished leather
Top Export Markets:
Country | Key Leather Products Imported |
🇩🇪 Germany | Leather shoes, gloves, wallets |
🇮🇹 Italy | Finished leather, fashion items |
🇺🇸 USA | Bags, belts, footwear |
🇬🇧 UK | Leather accessories, boots |
🇫🇷 France | Handbags, luxury goods |
🇯🇵 Japan | Eco-finished leather, men’s footwear |
🌍 EU Region | Footwear, accessories |
Why Choose Leather from Bangladesh?
- High-quality cowhide and goat leather
- Skilled craftsmanship at competitive costs
- Growing compliance with international standards (LWG, REACH)
- Export-friendly government incentives
- Strategic location for global buyers
🧳 Popular Leather Products:
- 👞 Footwear (Men’s, Women’s, Kids’)
- 👜 Bags (Backpacks, Handbags, Laptop Bags)
- 👝 Wallets, Purses & Clutches
- 🧤 Industrial and Sports Gloves
- 🎒 Travel & Fashion Accessories
📎 Belts, Watch Straps & Cases
🏗️ Industry Strengths:
- Over 220 export-oriented leather manufacturing companies
- Cluster-based production zones in Dhaka, Chattogram, Narayanganj, and Savar
- Government-established Leather Industrial Park in Savar
- Participation in international expos like APLF (Hong Kong), Lineapelle (Italy)
🚧 Challenges Faced:
- Delayed completion of central effluent treatment plant (CETP) in Savar
- Inconsistent compliance and certification in some factories
- Need for branding and innovation in design
- Limited online and direct-to-consumer exports
🏛️ Government & Industry Initiatives:
- 10% cash incentive on leather goods exports
- Training and upskilling through Leather Sector Business Promotion Council (LSBPC)
- Encouraging Leather Working Group (LWG) certifications
- Partnerships with development organizations and export councils
📈 Opportunities for Growth:
- Boost eco-leather production through green technologies
- Target luxury fashion segments with premium branding
- Promote online exports via platforms like TheMadeInBangladesh.com
- Establish joint ventures with European and Japanese brands
Conclusion:
Bangladesh’s leather industry stands at a critical crossroads—with immense potential for growth and global recognition. By focusing on sustainability, quality compliance, and branding, the country can soon become a leading name in the global leather goods market.
The Made in Bangladesh Expo is a powerful platform to showcase this excellence to international buyers and partners.
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