The four main leather importers of the ten nation ASEAN bloc are Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia.

While the four leading ASEAN importers share commonalities — such as strong manufacturing bases and export orientation — distinctive characteristics define each market:

• Vietnam dominates in terms of total volume of imported leather, largely due to its status as a global footwear manufacturing center.
• Indonesia, with its large domestic population, balances imports for both domestic consumption and export manufacturing.
• Thailand distinguishes itself by importing higher-value specialty and exotic leathers, catering to both the luxury consumer and the automotive sector.
• Malaysia combines a diverse manufacturing portfolio with strong re-export activity, making it a conduit for leather flows in the region.

Market Trends and Future Outlook

Several trends are shaping the future demand for imported leather in ASEAN:

• Preference for Sustainable Leather: Environmental concerns and pressure from global brands are driving demand for ethically sourced, eco-friendly, and certified leathers.
• Growth of Synthetic Alternatives: The rise of non-animal leathers, such as polyurethane and bio-based materials, is influencing overall import patterns.
• Regional Trade Agreements: ASEAN’s free trade agreements with key leather-producing countries reduce tariffs and facilitate smoother leather imports.
• Post-Pandemic Recovery: With the easing of global supply chain disruptions, ASEAN leather imports are projected to rebound and grow in line with economic recovery and rising consumer spending.

Conclusion

The ASEAN region remains a vital market for imported leather, driven by its diverse manufacturing capabilities, growing consumer markets, and integration into global supply chains. Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia lead the region in terms of demand, each with unique industry drivers and sourcing strategies. Going forward, the demand for imported leather in ASEAN is expected to remain robust, shaped by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability initiatives, and deeper regional and global trade integration.