COTANCE – Confederation of National Associations of Tanners and Dressers of the European Community has introduced a significant statutory reform that marks an important shift in the organisation’s structure and representation. The decision was taken on 13 February 2026 in Milan during Lineapelle 107 where members unanimously approved a revision of the Statutes.
The reform opens the door to a new category called Supporting Members. This allows organisations linked to the leather ecosystem, such as education providers, research bodies, clusters, suppliers and other stakeholders to take part in COTANCE activities. These members can join discussions and attend targeted events but will not have voting rights.
The revised Statutes also bring changes to leadership. The President will now appoint Vice Presidents, giving more flexibility in governance. The Presidency term has also been extended to four years signalling a move toward longer term planning.
“The decisions taken in Milan by unanimity signals not just an administrative update but a structural step forward a more open collaborative and future oriented Confederation ready to support a modern European leather ecosystem.”
– Manuel Rios, President, COTANCE
The organisation says the reform is designed to reflect how the leather sector is evolving. Industry challenges today go far beyond tanning and include sustainability, traceability, innovation, skills and global competition.
“COTANCE is and remains a European organisation representing the interest of European tanners. With this statutory evolution COTANCE broadens its constituency to cover also the interests of individuals and entities in the leather ecosystem which previously lacked representation.”
– Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano, Secretary General, COTANCE
With these changes COTANCE is positioning itself as a broader platform for the entire leather value chain rather than a body focused only on tanners. The move signals a clear shift toward inclusion collaboration and long term industry alignment.
Organisations interested in joining COTANCE as Supporting Members are invited to express their interest at cotance@euroleather.com
