Brazil’s leather exports reached $ 97.3 million in September 2025, according to data from SECEX (Secretariat of Foreign Trade) analyzed by CICB (Centre for the Brazilian Tanning Industry).
The figure marks an 18.5% increase compared to August but reflects a 4.8% drop from the same month last year when exports stood at US$ 102.1 million.
In volume terms, Brazil exported 17.2 million square meters and 60.3 thousand tons of hides and skins, up 7.7% and 14.8% respectively from September 2024.
Compared to August, exports also grew 27.5% in area and 33.2% in weight. Between January and September, total exports reached US$ 840.8 million, 11.8% lower than the same period in 2024.
Among major destinations, China (excluding Hong Kong) maintained its lead, accounting for 29.9% of total export value and 43.8% in area. While exports to China fell 14.4% in value, they increased 2.8% in volume, showing steady demand recovery.
The United States, holding 13.9% in value and 7.1% in area, recorded declines of 12.2% in value and 3.5% in area compared to last year.
Italy, in third place, saw a 17.4% drop in value and 8.6% in area, reflecting continued market pressure from Europe’s economic slowdown.
Despite challenges, China’s increased imports helped offset part of the decline seen in Western markets. Meanwhile, South Korea and Spain showed strong growth, up 63% and 56.8% in value, respectively.
By category, finished leather accounted for 49% of total export value and 37.2% of area, showing a mild 6.4% decline in value but a slight 0.5% growth in volume.
Wet blue leather, representing 26.3% of value and 54.6% of area, saw one of its best monthly performances of 2025, helped by improved export prices.
Shipments of split WB and crust leather fell in value but maintained stable volume, while exports of goat and sheep skins grew significantly with goat skins nearly doubling in value and sheep skins up 58.1% year-to-date.
After a weak August, September brought a strong rebound, highlighting the resilience of Brazil’s leather industry despite global challenges.
Export volumes hit their highest level of 2025, with 7.7% growth in area and 14.8% in weight compared to last year.
While U.S. tariffs continue to pressure Brazilian leather, exports to the country still rose 16.2% in value compared to August, though they remain 10.9% below pre-tariff averages.
Looking ahead, two key factors could shape the coming months the possible extension of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), giving companies more time to comply and ongoing diplomatic talks between Brazil and the U.S., which may lead to tariff revisions or new exemptions for leather products.
