India’s leather industry sees a new opening as Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in New Delhi for the 23rd India Russia Summit.

Exporters in Uttar Pradesh say the recent 50% tariff by the United States has hurt business badly.

According to The Free Press Journal, a 22 member team from the Council for Leather Exports will visit Russia from December 8 to 10, 2025 to explore joint ventures.

Asad Iraqi who is CLE’s regional chairman says the plan is to help Indian manufacturers enter the Russian market directly.

Kanpur once supplied huge volumes of leather to Russia. Trade slowed down over the years but exporters believe this is the comeback moment. Meetings with Russian buyers are also planned in Delhi to discuss market growth and supply chains.

Officials from FIEO say Kanpur makes over 30 quality export products. Leather is still the biggest.

Bilateral trade between India and Russia reach USD 68.7 billion in 2024 – 25. Exporters feel tapping into this can bring much needed stability after months of losses.