In the first half of 2025, the leather trade balance is critical. This is according to a report by Alliance France Cuir, which finds that imports remain stable, while exports decline slightly, signaling a shift in trade flows. Asia is gaining ground as a strategic partner, while Europe is losing its centrality. At the same time, a trend toward quality is gaining traction: lower volumes, but higher-end products. This dual trend is redrawing the international profile of the French supply chain.

The trade balance of leather

France is reorienting its imports: Europe is losing 9%, dropping to 46% of the total, while Asia is rising to 50% (+11%). The main Asian players are driving this trend: China (+7%), Vietnam (+19%), Indonesia (+11%), India (+7%), and Cambodia (+29%). Vietnam, in particular, is consolidating its position as the third-largest supplier, accounting for 23% of French footwear imports by value, and also recording significant increases in leather goods (+15%) and leather gloves (+28%). Conversely, its historic European partners are showing signs of slowing. Italy, the industry’s leading supplier and third-largest customer, is closing 2024 with a significant decline. French exports of raw materials to Italy are falling by 6%, directly impacting tanners. Imports from Italy are also suffering: -16% for leather goods and -11% for footwear. The reduction in customs prices (-4% for shoes, -15% for bags) confirms a strategy aimed at containing costs, with Asia as the epicenter.

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