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Many consumers often confuse mink and sable when purchasing fur. Although both furs contain the word "mink," their market prices can differ by more than tenfold. Industry veterans and high-end circles unanimously agree that sable is the true pinnacle of the fur industry, historically hailed as the "Crown of Fur, Soft Gold," representing the highest status, the finest quality, and the most collectible of all fur categories.   I. Inherent Hardware: Top-Tier Fur Texture Forged in Extreme Cold Sable's native habitat is the pristine coniferous forests of Siberia and the Far East, constantly exposed to extreme cold environments of minus 30-40 degrees Celsius. These harsh natural conditions forge unique fur properties that ordinary furs cannot replicate, resulting in superior texture, warmth, and a luxurious feel. 1. Extremely Lightweight, Zero-Weight Wearing Experience Sable pelts are extremely thin, only about half the thickness of mink fur. 1. A long mink coat, even lighter than a short mink coat, offers a comfortable, weightless feel, making it a benchmark for lightness in high-end fur. 2. Dense down and fine needles, with a unique silvery sheen. The mink underfur is extremely dense and thick; pressing it with your fingers completely obscures the leather. The guard hairs are fine and soft, without any sharp edges that prick the skin. The natural tips of the fur have a subtle silvery-white luster, the industry-renowned "silver needle" texture.   Unlike the glaring shine of ordinary fur, mink exhibits a warm, understated satin-like sheen under natural light, possessing an understated, luxurious "old-money" feel, an irreplaceable sense of sophistication. 3. Top-tier warmth: warmer in the wind, melts snow instantly. A classic saying in the industry goes: "The wind makes the fur warmer, and the snow melts away." The mink's dense double-layered fur traps a large amount of still air, forming a natural insulating layer that effectively insulates against low temperatures and snow. Snowflakes landing on the fur don't easily soak in or freeze; a gentle shake removes them, making it far more resistant to cold than ordinary mink, easily handling extremely cold weather.   II. Scarcity: Production and Heritage Establish High Status 1. Extremely High Breeding Difficulty, Impossible for Mass Production Sables are naturally solitary and have a late maturity period, a long gestation period, and very small litters, resulting in extremely low breeding efficiency. Mink can be farmed on a large scale and in a standardized manner, with a stable and sufficient output; however, sable farming has extremely high barriers to entry, a low survival rate, and a very limited global supply of high-quality raw pelts. 2. Top-Tier Raw Materials are Scarce, Extremely Difficult to Obtain High-quality sable raw materials are highly concentrated in Russia, and all are traded through professional auction houses, resulting in scarce supply and high demand. The number of top-grade sable pelts produced each year is extremely limited, making high-quality pelts consistently difficult to find, directly increasing their collectible and market value. 3. Exclusively for Royal Family for Millennia, Possessing Inherent Status From ancient times to the present, sable has been the exclusive fur of royalty and nobility. European royalty and Russian nobility alike regarded sable clothing as a symbol of supreme status and prestige. Today, sable is far more than just winter clothing; it's a collectible fur item with high value retention, heirloom potential, and unique design.   III. Sable vs. Mink: The Core Differences Are Clear Most people can't distinguish the essential differences between the two types of mink fur. In reality, there are significant differences in texture, warmth, rarity, and value, which is the core reason for the more than tenfold price difference.   1. Leather and Weight Sable: Extremely thin, resilient, and lightweight sable pelts, resulting in garments with no added weight; it represents the pinnacle of lightweight fur. Mink: Thicker pelts with lower density, resulting in garments with a noticeable heaviness; long garments can feel heavy on the shoulders. 2. Fur Texture and Luster Sable: Fine guard hairs and dense underfur, naturally possessing a silvery-white feel; its luster is warm, understated, and sophisticated, lacking any cheap shine. Mink: Guard hairs are coarser, underfur is even, luster is brighter and more straightforward, texture is conventional, lacking a distinctive high-end texture. 3. Warmth Performance Sable: Double-layered heat-locking structure, windproof and cold-resistant, snow-repellent, highly adaptable to extremely cold environments. Mink: Sufficient basic warmth, but its windproofing, cold-resistant, and snow-resistant properties are far inferior to sable; its performance in extreme low temperatures is average. 4. Production and Scarcity Sable: Cannot be mass-produced, scarce supply, traded through auctions; top-quality pieces are extremely rare each year. Mink: Large-scale farming, abundant production, high market circulation; considered a mass-market high-end fur. 5. Value and Attributes Sable: Possesses attributes of style, value preservation, and inheritance; a collectible luxury fur. Mink: Primarily for everyday high-end wear; highly liquid; lacks collectible and appreciation potential.   In summary, sable's position as the pinnacle of fur is not only due to its exceptional lightness, warmth, and luxurious texture, but also to its irreplaceable natural properties, extremely low production volume, and millennia-old heritage of high-end status. Among fur types, mink represents high-end fashion, while sable symbolizes top-tier collectibles and status, and is currently the most valuable and widely recognized top-tier fur category.

My country's leather industry has made significant progress in building its occupational standard system. On July 22, two national occupational standards, "Leather and Leather Products Processing Worker" and "Fur and Fur Products Processing Worker," successfully passed their initial review. This marks a new stage in the development of core skill-based job standards for the leather industry, further improving the industry's skills training, competency assessment, and career development system.   Occupational standards are fundamental documents for skilled personnel training and serve as the core basis for vocational training, skill level certification, skills competitions, and professional textbook compilation. The development of these two standards incorporates the latest industry developments, systematically optimizes occupational functions, job content, skill requirements, and theoretical knowledge items, closely aligning with the industry's current state and future technological trends, significantly enhancing the standards' scientific rigor, practicality, and forward-looking perspective.   Currently, the domestic leather industry is accelerating its transformation towards digitalization, intelligentization, and green development. New processes are constantly being updated, and new materials and equipment are being widely implemented, placing new demands on frontline skilled workers. Industry insiders indicate that this upgrade of occupational standards clearly defines the competency framework for skilled personnel in the new era, providing important guidance for enterprises to cultivate skilled workers adapted to industry changes.   Data shows that in 2025, key enterprises in China's leather industry achieved sales revenue exceeding 750 billion yuan, of which leather and leather products accounted for 410 billion yuan and fur and fur products accounted for 13.3 billion yuan. As the world's largest leather producer and exporter, my country's leather industry boasts a complete manufacturing chain and a large workforce. Establishing a comprehensive occupational standard system and opening up career advancement channels for skilled personnel are key to promoting high-quality development of the industry.   Li Yuzhong, Chairman of the China Leather Industry Association, stated that following the revision of the national occupational standards for "Footwear Designer" and "Leather Goods Designer," these two processing trade standards have achieved a significant breakthrough, marking another important achievement in the construction of the industry's standard system. The standard development takes into account both current production realities and long-term development trends, accurately reflecting the industry's current technological level while guiding practitioners to continuously improve their comprehensive abilities, thus solidifying the talent foundation for the industry's sustainable development.   Industry experts explained that national occupational standards, distinct from product standards and process specifications, focus on the unified standardization of practitioners' comprehensive professional abilities and are an important cornerstone of modern vocational education and skills evaluation systems. Against the backdrop of the country's vigorous development of a skilled workforce, the guiding value of occupational standards continues to stand out. This drafting process emphasizes a deep alignment between job skills and industry needs: it fully incorporates practical experience from frontline enterprises to ensure standards are relevant to production scenarios; it also considers the development of enterprises in different regions and of different sizes, rationally classifying skill levels to provide clear career paths for skilled workers and offering a unified reference for internal talent development and skills assessment.   Both standards have successfully passed the initial review, which will promote more standardized and orderly talent development in the leather industry and help establish a more mature talent cultivation, evaluation, and appointment mechanism. Subsequent work will proceed in an orderly manner, including public consultation, revisions, and final review. Once officially released and implemented, the standards will become an important institutional support for the transformation and upgrading of the leather industry, helping to build a knowledgeable, skilled, and innovative industrial workforce and continuously enhancing the international competitive advantage of my country's leather industry.

Currently, US trade policies continue to impact Asian production, reshaping the global apparel sourcing landscape. The US Apparel & Footwear Association (USFIA), in collaboration with Professor Sheng Lu's team at the University of Delaware, completed its 2026 industry benchmark survey and officially released the report on July 20th. The survey, conducted from April to June, visited 30 leading US fashion companies to gather their perspectives on trade policies, production costs, and the global supply chain.   I. Continued High Pressure from Trade Policies, Multiple Tariffs Imminent   The survey shows that tariff barriers and policy uncertainty stemming from trade protectionism have been the primary concern for US apparel brands for the second consecutive year.   In June, the USTR completed its Section 301 investigation into "forced labor imports" from 46 economies, planning to impose an additional 12.5% ​​tariff, with China on the control list. The conclusions of another round of Section 301 investigations into "structural overcapacity" in 16 countries are about to be announced. The Section 122 global 10% tariff, which replaced the temporary tariff, officially expired on July 24.   Long-term optimism in the industry has fallen to its lowest point in this survey, with only 62% of corporate executives optimistic about the industry's development over the next five years. However, a key turning point has emerged: by 2026, the willingness of overseas brands to withdraw from the Chinese supply chain on a large scale has cooled significantly. Companies are no longer blindly expanding into new overseas production locations, and generally choose to solidify existing cooperative channels and deepen ties with established suppliers. Industry expert Sheng Lu pointed out that the Chinese supply chain remains irreplaceable, and no brand plans to completely sever cooperation with China.   II. Anomalies in Import and Export Data: Surging Apparel Imports from China, Reshuffling the Production Landscape   The data reveals a significant contrast: In May 2026, US apparel imports from China surged by 18%, while the overall increase in US global apparel imports during the same period was only 2.8%, a particularly striking counter-trend growth.   The global sourcing geographical structure has undergone a clear adjustment: Utilization rates for sourcing from China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh have declined simultaneously, while Guatemala, Egypt, and Jordan have reached their highest sourcing shares in over a decade. Egypt and Jordan have entered the top ten US sourcing sources for the first time.   The utilization rate of Egypt's QIZ duty-free industrial zone increased from 38% to 53%, and the utilization rate of the US-Jordan Free Trade Agreement rose from 50% to 60%, leading all production areas in growth. These two regions are attractive due to their low labor costs and tariff preferences, with over one-third of US companies planning to expand their supply chains listing Egypt as a key region for consideration.   Corporate purchasing attitudes are shifting: 65% of companies maintain a diversified multi-country sourcing model, but the number of companies planning to expand into new countries and establish factories has decreased significantly. The industry focus has shifted from "geographical expansion" to "deepening relationships with existing suppliers and enhancing the resilience of the supply chain."   III. Reshaping the core advantages of China's supply chain and continuously strengthening its upstream bargaining power.   Although China's direct exports of finished apparel to the US are unlikely to return to historical peaks, multiple underlying advantages have revitalized the industry's attractiveness: **Cost and order flexibility advantages are prominent:** Domestic labor costs have been declining continuously since 2025 under the deflationary environment, and current tariff levels on Chinese goods are roughly on par with Bangladesh. Relying on a complete vertical industrial chain, domestic factories can handle extremely small batches of 50-150 pieces for quick response orders. Compared to the 3,000-5,000 pieces minimum order threshold of large Vietnamese factories, the competitive advantage in small and urgent orders is solid.   **Continuously rising status of upstream raw materials:** Southeast Asian capacity expansion is highly dependent on Chinese fabrics and accessories; 60%-80% of Vietnam's textile raw materials are supplied by China. While China's share of imported finished products is declining, its influence in the global apparel upstream supply chain continues to rise. A smaller share does not equate to a decline in industry influence.   IV. Tariff Window Opens, Industry Undergoes New Reshuffling   With the expiration of the Section 122 temporary tariffs, the market initially anticipated a tax reduction benefit for approximately $30 billion worth of Chinese textiles and apparel. However, coupled with the impending implementation of the 12.5% ​​Section 301 punitive tariff, export companies remain under pressure.   Simply relocating factories is no longer a sustainable strategy. Only companies that can balance tariff costs, compliance risk control, and production efficiency will survive the industry reshuffling.   Industry Summary In today's market, supply chain resilience no longer equates to blind relocation. A rational, diversified layout to mitigate risks, and a focus on improving production efficiency and compliance management are the long-term development paths. China's apparel supply chain will not replicate past models, but it will not withdraw from the global market either. In the complex and ever-changing international trade environment, the core competitiveness of enterprises remains delivery speed, production costs, and product manufacturing capabilities. The future direction of the industry depends on the production schedules and core strengths of each factory.

    Tigrado is not a sheep breed name, but rather a distinctive sheepskin fabric from Spain. It's a popular retro curly fur category following Italian Tuscan (Toca) lineage.   Origin: Spanish pastures, using raw materials from the original hides and wool of lambs approximately 3 months old.   Name Explanation: Derived from the Spanish word "tigrado," meaning tiger stripes or speckled markings, corresponding to the fabric's natural mixed-color wool pattern.   Product Positioning: Mid-to-high-end specialty shearling, emphasizing a retro, relaxed sheepskin curl style. I. Core Fabric Characteristics Curl Shape: The wool forms short, dense spiral curls, creating a fluffy and three-dimensional shape, reminiscent of Spanish short beard curls in the industry; its fluffiness rivals Tuscan shearling, and it doesn't easily flatten. Coat Color and Texture：The raw leather naturally features a mottled pattern, displaying irregular tiger stripes interwoven with dark brown, light brown, and black and white, making each pelt unique. It can also be dyed later to create solid colors such as pure gray, teddy brown, and black. Coat Structure：The outer layer is composed of long, curly guard hairs, while the inner layer is lined with a dense underfur, forming a double-layer structure. Compared to Lagon and Merino, the guard hairs are slightly coarser, but the underfur is soft and supple, preventing itching against the skin. Leather Characteristics：The leather is of medium to thick thickness, with excellent toughness and windproof performance. Due to the small size of lambs, the area of ​​a single pelt is limited, requiring multiple pieces of leather to be pieced together when making garments, collars, and shoes; natural seams are a normal phenomenon. II. Fabric Quality, Care Tips, and Purchasing Guide   Performance Advantages and Disadvantages ✅ Advantages Excellent heat retention: Long, curly fur traps air for efficient insulation; can be worn alone at -20°C; superior warmth compared to ordinary merino fur. High style recognition: Three-dimensional curly fur has a retro feel, suitable for making large coat lapels, shoe linings, and bag linings. Durable: Thick leather is not prone to cracking, and the curly fur is not prone to flattening; it does not easily show signs of wear with slight friction. Good breathability: The double-layered fur structure allows for air circulation, preventing stuffiness and sweating.   ⚠️ Disadvantages The raw fur has a textured feel, but its ultimate softness is not as good as French lambskin. Single hides are small in size, requiring more splicing in the finished garment, resulting in greater material waste and higher production costs. The natural mixed floral pattern has a distinct visual character, limiting its compatibility with minimalist styles. The finished long coat is heavier than a thinner Tuscan merino fur coat.  Wearing and Care Instructions Do not wash with water. For localized stains, gently wipe with a damp cloth. For deep cleaning, choose professional fur dry cleaning. Hang for storage, avoiding heavy objects to prevent permanent deformation of the fur curls. Store in a cool, well-ventilated wardrobe, protecting from moisture and insects, and away from heating and direct sunlight. Reduce long-term, repeated friction on cuffs, hems, etc., to slow down fur wear.     Selection and Identification Techniques Genuine Tigrado leather has natural light and dark variegation; solid-color products with completely uniform overall color are generally dyed leather. Observe the fur curl shape: the standard feature is short, spiral curls, distinct from long, wavy curls. Examine the leather: fine sheepskin texture and multiple seams are natural characteristics of genuine products. Gently press the fur surface: rapid rebound and resistance to collapse indicate excellent leather quality. III. Horizontal Comparison of Fabrics Tigrado VS Tuscan (Toca). Both are vintage curly fur, commonly known as Western curls or Italian curls, and are the most easily confused categories in the market. Tigrado (Spain) Wool Curl: Fine, compact, short spiral curls with a strong granular texture and excellent support, resisting flattening even after prolonged wear; Touch: Clear hairline with a vintage textured surface and a soft, supple undercoat; Leather: Relatively thick with tight fibers, resistant to cold and tearing, and does not easily harden in low temperatures; Wearing Effect: Stiff silhouette, flattering for sloping shoulders, strong biker style in short coats, heavier in long coats; Color: Mostly natural tiger stripe and mixed colors, dyed versions have a vintage, muted tone; Durability: Strong hair roots prevent loosening, and the leather is resistant to hardening and cracking even after long-term wear. Tuscan (Italy) Wool Curls: Long, flowing waves with a loose, soft curl and minimal grain; Touch: Fine, soft, and smooth guard hairs, warm and gentle, without any rough texture; Leather: Thin, supple, and highly elastic, slightly hardening at low temperatures; Wearing Effect: Drapes beautifully and flows gracefully, lightweight and unburdening, suitable for long coats, creating a gentle and slimming style; Color: Primarily light beige or creamy white in its natural state, with few natural mixed patterns, and the dyeing process produces a translucent and soft effect; Durability: The long, curly hairs have shallow roots, making them prone to fraying due to frequent friction, and the curls may loosen over time. Tigrado VS Lacon (High-End Lambskin). Both are high-end lambskin, the key difference being the presence or absence of stiff guard hairs. Tigrado Wool: Clearly defined double-layer structure with prominent guard hairs; the outer layer has a muscular feel. Touch: The outer layer has a grainy texture, while the underfur is soft, lacking a silky smooth feel. Leather: Thick and flat, without natural rib patterns; suitable for making leather garments, shoe materials, and double-sided leather; high processing tolerance. Source Cost: Stable production from Spanish ranches, ensuring ample raw material supply. Winter Protection: The outer layer provides stronger wind-locking; its warmth performance in windy conditions is superior to Laguna. Laguna Wool: No stiff guard hairs; full underfur structure, also known as "gunless lambskin"; extremely fine fibers. Touch: Overall, soft, silky, and smooth like a cloud; a benchmark for the feel of genuine leather. Leather: Thin and delicate, with natural rib patterns; prone to cracking; difficult to make large leather garments and shoes; does not support double-sided processing. Source Cost: Sourced from limited Alpine ranches; scarce production; extremely high garment wastage. Winter Protection: Excellent warmth in calm conditions; more prone to drafts in windy weather. Tigrado VS Merino (Basic Goods) High-end retro fabrics are often marketed as mass-market commuter fabrics, a common example of misleading marketing. Tigrado: Fur type: Three-dimensional spiral curls, strong fluffiness, prominent fur texture; Fur roots: Deeply rooted, thick fur layer, uneven thickness is a natural characteristic; Leather: Original dark brown, thick leather, strong toughness, wear-resistant and bending-resistant; Dyeing characteristics: Unique original mixed colors, strong dye adhesion, not easy to fade. Merino: Fur type: Straight or slightly curly, smooth matte surface, no three-dimensional grain, simple and simple style; Fur roots: Even and thin fur layer, standardized breeding, uniform leather specifications; Leather: Light white thin leather, moderate toughness, prone to cracking with repeated bending over a long period of time; Dyeing characteristics: Very easy to dye, even and clean color, the vast majority of affordable solid-color fur-lined leather on the market is made of Merino.

When choosing a sofa for your living room, leather sofas are always a top choice for aesthetics. However, most consumers have encountered the same problem: after removing the protective film from a new sofa, a strong odor hits you, and even after two or three months of ventilation, the odor persists.   Many merchants will give the same explanation: genuine leather naturally has a smell, and ventilation will dissipate it. However, many families experience discomfort such as dry and itchy throats and sore eyes after ventilating for up to six months, realizing that simple ventilation is not enough. Based on experience in the upholstered furniture industry, we will teach you how to distinguish between normal leather fragrance and harmful chemical odors, avoiding environmental hazards.   Distinguish Between Two Scents: Natural Leather Scent and Harmful Pungent Odors Processed natural leather will have a faint oily fragrance, similar to the factory smell of brand new leather clothing and bags, which is the normal smell of the material itself. This smell is not irritating and will noticeably fade and dissipate after 3-5 days of ventilation, a normal characteristic of genuine leather.   A persistent plastic, fishy, ​​or pungent chemical smell is not a natural odor of leather and indicates excessive levels of chemical additives, primarily from three sources:  Excessive solvents in the coating: Some manufacturers use excessive amounts of coatings and color-fixing agents to cover up leather imperfections. These solvents release volatile compounds such as benzene and formaldehyde, which can damage the respiratory system with prolonged inhalation. Inferior sponges and glues causing cumulative pollution: The sponges filling the sofa and the glue used to bond the frame release TVOCs (Total Volatile Organic Compounds), which mix with the leather smell and amplify the odor. Formaldehyde release can last for 3-15 years.  Improper tanning processes resulting in chemical residues. Simple three-step self-test method to quickly distinguish between high-quality leather and problematic products: Step 1: Remove the protective film and smell for 3 seconds. High-quality leather emits a faint, natural oily fragrance. If you smell a plastic, fishy, ​​or sour odor with a strong, pungent odor, it is recommended to refuse the product immediately. Step 2: Warm up in your palm for 10 seconds. Press your palms firmly against the leather surface for 10 seconds; body heat will accelerate the release of the odor. High-quality leather retains a mild, oily scent; contaminated leather develops a stronger, more pungent chemical odor when heated.     Note: Odor is only a supplementary method of identification and cannot completely replace professional testing. If a leather sofa has a persistent, irritating odor after purchase, and family members frequently experience health problems, it is recommended to have indoor air quality tested.

Introduction: In May 2026, various regions and departments implemented proactive macroeconomic control policies, resulting in steady progress in national industrial production. Industrial product exports maintained double-digit growth, while equipment manufacturing, high-tech manufacturing, and digital product manufacturing continued to see strong growth. Green transformation of industries was implemented in an orderly manner, and the driving effect of new industrial drivers continued to be prominent.   I. Accelerated Industrial Production and Expanded Industry Growth Coverage   In May, the value added of industrial enterprises above designated size nationwide increased by 4.5% year-on-year, 0.4 percentage points higher than the previous month, and increased by 0.40% month-on-month after seasonal adjustment.   By three major categories: the value added of mining increased by 2.3% year-on-year, manufacturing by 4.4%, and the production and supply of electricity, heat, gas, and water by 7.6%.   It covered all 41 major industrial sectors, of which 28 sectors achieved value added growth, representing 68.3% of the sectors.   II. Equipment Manufacturing Becomes the Core Support for Industrial Growth   The added value of equipment manufacturing enterprises above designated size increased by 9.5% year-on-year in May, accelerating by 1.2 percentage points month-on-month, contributing 78.4% to the growth of industrial enterprises above designated size. All eight sub-sectors under this industry saw growth.   The electronics industry grew by 17.0% year-on-year, reaching a new high in nearly five years, contributing 39.2% and leading all major industrial categories. The growth rates for instruments and meters, special equipment, automobiles, aerospace and shipbuilding, and general equipment were 10.3%, 9.1%, 8.3%, 7.4%, and 6.7%, respectively.   The output of high-end equipment products surged: power plant steam turbines increased by 70.7%, civilian steel ships by 70.6%, and medical instruments and equipment by 20.5%.   III. High-Tech Manufacturing Leads Industrial Upgrading   The added value of high-tech manufacturing increased by 15.1% year-on-year in May, accelerating by 2.3 percentage points month-on-month, contributing 57.0% to industrial growth, an increase of 4.9 percentage points from the previous month.   Sub-sectors showed strong growth: electronic component manufacturing (35.4%), aircraft manufacturing (24.2%), electronic industrial equipment (18.7%), and biopharmaceutical manufacturing (14.7%).   The entire artificial intelligence industry chain accelerated: sensor production increased by 24.1%, and integrated circuit production increased by 22.9%; the intelligent robot sector expanded rapidly, with robot reducers, industrial robots, and service robots seeing production increases of 44.7%, 27.9%, and 19.8%, respectively.   IV. The growth rate of the digital product manufacturing industry continued to accelerate.   The added value of the digital product manufacturing industry above designated size increased by 13.9% year-on-year, accelerating by 1.9 percentage points compared to the previous period, contributing 48.2% to industrial growth, an increase of 8.6 percentage points compared to the previous period.   The added value of electronic component and equipment manufacturing and intelligent equipment manufacturing increased by 19.7% and 18.0%, respectively.   The production and sales of industrial digitalization equipment are booming: 3D printing equipment production increased by 54.4%, while CNC metal cutting machine tools and CNC forging equipment increased by 16.7% and 13.7% respectively; demand for core components of industrial automation is strong, with industrial automatic control instruments, machine tool CNC devices, and industrial control computer systems growing by 41.3%, 23.1%, and 20.6% respectively.   V. Steady Progress in Green Transformation of Industries   Green-related industries are showing strong growth momentum, with the added value of biomass fuel processing and bio-based material manufacturing increasing by 47.1% and 16.2% year-on-year respectively.   The new energy industry chain continues to expand, with the production of new energy vehicles reaching 1.489 million units in May, driving a 40.0% increase in lithium-ion battery production; the supply of green raw materials has improved, with the production of lithium carbonate, fuel ethanol, and bio-based chemical fibers increasing by 20.8%, 21.0%, and 18.1% respectively.   VI. Stable Double-Digit Growth in Industrial Product Exports   In May, the export delivery value of industrial enterprises above designated size reached 1.4 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 10.1%. Equipment manufacturing was the main export driver, accounting for 74.6% of the industry's total export value, a year-on-year increase of 0.9 percentage points.   The export value of automobiles, aerospace/shipbuilding, and specialized equipment all achieved double-digit growth, with growth rates of 22.9%, 18.5%, and 16.1% respectively. The electronics industry saw a 9.9% increase in exports, contributing 38.1% of the total export growth.   Market Outlook and Development Direction   Comprehensive data shows that the domestic industrial economy in May was generally stable with progress, and the role of innovation-driven growth continued to strengthen. However, it is also important to acknowledge the complex and volatile external environment, and the real pressures faced by industrial enterprises, such as weak domestic demand and profit differentiation across industries.   In the next stage, all regions will fully, accurately, and comprehensively implement the new development philosophy, accelerate the construction of a new development pattern, and coordinate the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, the expansion of emerging industries, and the forward-looking layout of future industries, taking multiple measures to promote high-quality development of the industrial economy.

Mink coats, with their unique texture and luxurious feel, have always been a high-end choice for winter wear. However, many consumers encounter a common problem when purchasing mink clothing: some coats of the same style remain fluffy and shiny even after years of wear, while others show signs of limpness, shedding, deformation, and wear after only a year. Industry insiders say the core reason for this difference is that consumers cannot distinguish between whole mink and patchwork mink, easily misled by low-price gimmicks and falling into consumer traps.   It is understood that many low-priced, trendy mink coats on the market are actually patchwork mink sold as whole mink. The difference between whole and patchwork mink is not simply a matter of craftsmanship; the two differ greatly in raw materials, feel, lifespan, price, and resale value, which is the key reason why consumers lose money when buying mink. Furthermore, the common misconception that "no seams mean whole mink, gaps mean patchwork" is a typical consumer misunderstanding and a common misleading tactic used by merchants.   Clarifying the Core Definition: Whole Mink Coats Use High-Quality Fur, Patchwork Mink Coats Use Scraps and Waste   Addressing common misconceptions, the fur industry has provided a proper definition, accurately distinguishing the core differences between whole mink coats and patchwork mink coats.   Whole mink coats, also known as full-grain mink coats, are made from large, intact mink back pelts. The head, tail, and limbs are removed during the cutting process, using only the thickest, tightest, and highest-quality core back pelt. There are no scraps, scraps, or waste pelts mixed in. A qualified whole mink coat is made from dozens of complete, large mink back pelts neatly pieced together. It's important to note that whole mink coats are not made from single mink pelts; the neat piecing together of large pelts is a standard technique in high-end mink garments and does not affect the quality or texture of the clothing.   Patchwork mink coats, also called scrap mink coats, are a product of cost-cutting measures. They mainly use scraps from the mink head, tail, paws, belly, and other small pieces of discarded pelts, densely pieced together and sewn together. These scraps of leather, with their uneven fur length, messy texture, and soft leather, are originally waste materials from mink coat production. After being machine-assembled and trimmed, they closely resemble whole mink coats, making them difficult for the average consumer to distinguish with the naked eye. Simply put, whole mink coats use high-quality core mink fur, while patchwork mink coats are made entirely from scraps, creating a significant quality difference from the very beginning.   Comprehensive Comparison: Four Core Differences Between Whole and Patchwork Mink Coats    Significant Differences in Texture and Appearance: Whole mink coats have a smooth, even fur surface, uniform and smooth texture, and consistent fur height throughout, possessing a delicate and warm sheen. The coat also has a crisp, structured silhouette, creating a slimming and luxurious look.    Patchwork mink coats, due to the use of fragmented leather, have a messy and disordered fur surface, with inconsistent fur length, density, and direction. The overall fur has a dull and lackluster sheen, the coat is soft and shapeless, and the details are uneven and patchy, making it difficult to conceal its cheap quality.   Lifespan Difference of Tenfold The core value of a mink coat lies in its durability and resale value. Whole mink pelts are thick, tough, and extremely resilient, resistant to cracking and peeling, with tightly rooted fur. Under normal care, they can be worn reliably for 5 to 10 years, maintaining their shape and becoming softer and shinier with wear, making them valuable for long-term wear and collection.   Patchwork mink coats are made from numerous scraps of pelt, resulting in thinner, more fragile pelts and many seams. Even slight pulling or friction can easily cause cracking, shedding, and down leakage. Most patchwork mink garments show significant signs of drooping, deformation, and hardening and aging of the pelts after only 1 to 2 years, offering virtually no re-wear value or resale value.   Huge Price and Cost Difference The difference in raw materials and craftsmanship creates a significant price gap. Whole mink pelts are scarce, and the complex manufacturing process results in extremely high production costs. Authentic whole mink coats generally start at tens of thousands of yuan, with top-quality purple-label whole mink coats reaching tens of thousands of yuan.   Patchwork mink coats are made from scraps and waste materials, resulting in extremely low costs—only one-third to one-fifth the price of whole mink coats. Their market price ranges from several hundred to two or three thousand yuan, making them a major category of low-priced, best-selling mink coats on e-commerce platforms.   Consumer Reminder: Understand the Essence of the Category and Avoid Mink Coat Traps   Industry experts remind consumers not to focus solely on style and price when purchasing mink coats, and not to blindly follow trends with low-priced best-sellers. When buying, it is crucial to carefully distinguish the materials and craftsmanship, understand the essential differences between whole mink and patchwork mink, avoid common misconceptions, prioritize reputable channels, and ensure the quality of materials and craftsmanship. Avoid paying high prices for inferior products due to a lack of understanding of category differences, and effectively avoid consumer traps.

In May, domestic prices for top-grain cowhide and sheepskin raw materials rose slightly throughout the month. Small and medium-sized leather processing plants specializing in genuine leather women's bags and business belts focused on upgrading their cutting processes to reduce material waste and offset raw material costs. Simultaneously, the industry tightened pricing for genuine leather bags and belts, both at the factory and retail levels.   Looking at raw material prices, domestic tumbled and full-grain cowhide (the main material for women's bags and regular business belts) saw a month-on-month increase of 4.2%-6.8%, while belt-specific cowhide rose by as much as 7.1%. Italian imported calfskin and Togo pebbled cowhide saw spot prices rise by approximately 5%, domestic sheepskin by 3.5%, and imported lambskin by 5.3%. The price increases stemmed from a reduction in domestic cattle slaughter, increased environmental protection costs at tanning plants, coupled with tightened exports of raw hides from South America and Australia, and higher import shipping costs. Genuine leather bags account for 45%-55% of the production cost per item, while genuine leather belts account for 42%-50%. Rising raw material prices directly squeeze the original net profit margin of small and medium-sized factories by 8%-12%.   To offset the pressure of rising prices, over a thousand small and medium-sized leather goods factories in core production areas such as Guangzhou Huadu and Wenzhou have implemented two loss reduction solutions: Firstly, they have purchased AI-powered intelligent vibrating knife cutting equipment. Relying on the system's intelligent layout, the utilization rate of cowhide raw materials has increased from 70%-73% to 81%-85%, and the utilization rate of sheepskin from 65% to 76%-79%. Factories without equipment purchase budgets have optimized pattern layout, utilizing gaps in the cut pieces to produce small accessories, increasing the secondary utilization rate of genuine leather scraps from 5% to 16%. The investment in a single intelligent cutting machine ranges from 38,000 to 65,000 yuan. Thanks to cost savings from material savings, belt and genuine leather bag manufacturers can typically recoup their investment in 3-5 months.   Product pricing is being adjusted in stages: prices for full-leather products are increasing, while prices for semi-leather products are being slightly adjusted to stabilize orders. The ex-factory price of business-grade full-leather cowhide belts is increasing by 3%-4.5%, and imported high-end cowhide belts by 5%-6%. The ex-factory price of domestically produced full-leather women's bags is increasing by 3%-4%, and sheepskin luxury women's bags by 4.8%-6%. Offline retail prices for full-leather belts are increasing by 4%-7%, and full-leather commuter bags by 5%-8%, with brands mostly adopting a phased pricing model. Prices for export orders to the Middle East and Southeast Asia are uniformly increasing by 3.2%-5%, and large-scale overseas orders are being postponed to observe the market outlook.   The industry is showing signs of polarization: leading large leather goods companies have locked in prices and stocked up in advance, seizing outflowing orders by maintaining low-priced inventory without adjusting prices; small and medium-sized factories are controlling losses through a combination of process optimization and slight price increases; workshops producing handmade vegetable-tanned genuine leather small bags and slim belts are facing the heaviest cost pressures, with retail prices rising by 7%-9%, and some workshops reducing their full-leather product SKUs. Industry leather traders predict that domestic cowhide prices are expected to stabilize in June, while imported high-end cowhide prices will remain high. Factories will continue to optimize product designs, shifting towards lightweight and material-saving styles.   Industry Notes at the End: This article's data is based on on-site surveys of the leather goods industry in Guangzhou and Wenzhou, focusing on the genuine leather handbag and business belt sub-sectors.

Recently, the International Leather Council, together with global meat, hide, and leather industry organizations, formally submitted a joint letter to the European Commission, focusing on the profound impact of the EU Zero Forest Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on international trade in cowhide and leather. The CLEIA responded actively, supporting the industry's collective voice and working together to maintain the stable operation of the global leather industry chain.   The core demands of this joint industry letter are: to request the European Commission to remove all cowhide and leather-related products under Customs Tariff HS41 from Annex I of the EUDR; and to further request that sheepskin, goatskin, and their derivatives not be included in new regulatory categories during subsequent reviews.   Summary of the Joint Letter's Core Content   The industry acknowledges the EU's decision to postpone the implementation of the legislation by 12 months and to simplify compliance requirements for SMEs. It also supports the EU's intention to further optimize the product coverage of the legislation and formally requests a reconsideration of the rationale for including raw hides, cowhides, and leather under Chapter 41 in the regulatory list.   From a scientific perspective, there is currently no empirical evidence to prove a causal link between raw hides/leather and deforestation. Research from the University of Pisa has also clearly confirmed that leather products are not a driving factor in deforestation and should be removed from the control list based on scientific evidence.   Continuing to regulate these products will severely impact the European and global leather industries. The EU leather industry is highly dependent on imported raw materials. According to estimates by the European Federation of Leather Associations (COTANCE), the new regulations could prevent nearly 40% of leather raw materials from entering the EU, creating serious market distortions. This will not only drive up local raw material prices and manufacturing costs in the EU but also significantly weaken the global competitiveness of European leather companies.   The current requirements of the legislation already constitute technical barriers to trade. Even in countries with no risk of deforestation, businesses struggle to meet the requirements for land geolocation and traceability: fragmented information on small-scale livestock farming, multiple transfers of livestock making traceability difficult, and data privacy regulations in various countries further complicate compliance. Meanwhile, limited EU beef imports and low added value of raw hides discourage companies from investing heavily in dedicated traceability systems.   Strict regulations will also trigger multiple negative chain reactions: large quantities of usable raw hides will be forced to be discarded or diverted to unrestricted products like gelatin and collagen, failing to contribute to zero deforestation goals and increasing greenhouse gas emissions; it will also force the market to use more fossil-based synthetic materials, contradicting the EU's circular economy development philosophy.   In summary, including HS41-compliant leather products under EUDR regulation will not have a substantial impact on global deforestation control. Instead, it will disrupt normal international trade, potentially leading to economic and social problems such as tanneries closing and job losses in the EU, while also causing adverse environmental impacts.   Therefore, the global industry collectively appealed to the European Commission: Based on scientific conclusions, confirm that HS41 products are not a source of deforestation and remove them entirely from the applicable list in Annex 1 of the Act; In subsequent assessments and legislative processes, prevent the inclusion of sheepskin, goatskin, and related products in the new control list.

When people think of fur, the common perception is that it's all about warmth in the cold winter, as if heaviness and warmth are its only labels, suitable only for late autumn and the dead of winter. But those who truly understand quality and style know that fur is not a seasonal exclusive, but a timeless fashion statement with its own luxurious feel. It shouldn't be bound by the cold, nor should it be confined to the winter wardrobe.   Breaking stereotypes: Fur is not synonymous with bulkiness and heaviness.   Many people are reluctant to try fur in spring and summer, their biggest concern being that it will be stuffy, bulky, and not breathable.   Modern fur processing has long since broken through traditional limitations. Through light tanning, thinning techniques, and optimized de-furning, it retains the delicate texture of natural fur and the soft, fluffy underfur while significantly reducing the thickness of the leather, resulting in a comprehensive upgrade in breathability.   It feels light and close-fitting against the skin, without any heavy drape, preventing sweating and stickiness; its natural soft texture and warm touch are a luxurious quality that synthetic fabrics cannot replicate or replace.   Suitable for all seasons, gentle texture is always on point.   Spring: A must-have for atmospheric outfits. With the slight temperature difference between day and night in spring, short fur vests, delicate fur collars, and small fur accessories are just right. Paired with knitwear, shirts, and floral maxi skirts, the soft fur neutralizes the cool spring vibe, understated yet effortlessly achieving a relaxed and sophisticated look, elevating the overall style.   Summer: Exquisite accents in small areas. In the height of summer, you don't need large fur garments. Fur headbands, plush bags, ornaments, and thin fringed edges as accents can add layers and a relaxed, luxurious feel to simple summer outfits. The natural feel of fur is warm and smooth, adding a touch of gentleness to the hot summer days.   Autumn/Winter: Classic mainstays with enduring appeal. Autumn and winter are the seasons for fur. Long fur coats, full-grain fur garments, and patchwork jackets combine warmth and style. Natural fur is lightweight, breathable, and warm, combining practicality with a sophisticated style, making it an indispensable classic item in any autumn/winter wardrobe. Upholding its natural essence, it exudes a timeless sense of luxury.   Artificial fabrics can mimic the appearance of fur, but they can never replicate the unique vitality of natural fur.   Each piece of natural fur has a unique texture, a naturally translucent sheen, and a warm, delicate touch. After meticulous processing, it is resistant to shedding and deformation, durable and aesthetically pleasing, making it a piece that can be worn for a long time and treasured for generations.   It's not a fleeting trend, but a classic item that transcends seasons and fashion cycles, simple, versatile, and develops its charm with each wear.   More than just clothing, fur is integrated into everyday aesthetics.   The value of fur extends far beyond clothing, deeply integrating into home décor.   Wool felt handicrafts, fur cushions, plush ornaments, and desktop decorative items use their natural, soft texture to decorate spaces and soothe emotions. In our fast-paced lives, a touch of soft, warm fur has a healing quality and adds a gentle sense of ritual to our daily lives.  

Following a global call from the leather industry and the efforts of various parties, the European Commission's latest draft authorization bill has made a significant adjustment, removing raw hides and leather from the list of applicable items under the EU Zero Forest Deforestation Act (EUDR, Regulation No. (EU) 2023/1115).   The draft removes the entries related to raw hides and leather under tariff codes 4101, 4104, and 4107 from the annex to the bill, meaning that raw hides, semi-finished leather, and finished leather are no longer within the scope of EUDR regulation. The remaining leather categories under Chapter 41 were not originally on the controlled list; this adjustment further clarifies the industry's applicable boundaries.   Previously, the EUDR proposed including raw hides and leather under its regulation. The China Leather Industry Association immediately sent a letter to the Chinese Mission to the EU, clarifying its position based on the industry's nature and trade realities: Leather raw materials are by-products of animal husbandry, not a cause of deforestation, and possess resource recycling and low-carbon environmental attributes; the rule requiring full-chain traceability of the geographical coordinates of livestock farms lacks feasibility, would significantly increase compliance costs for Chinese exporters, easily create hidden trade barriers, and could trigger a chain reaction of subsequent expansion of the EU's regulatory scope for leather products.   The Chinese Mission to the EU attached great importance to the industry's demands and actively conveyed China's views to the European Commission; at the same time, the China Leather Industry Association continuously collaborated with international leather industry organizations to jointly express the industry's reasonable demands. Ultimately, the European Commission adopted the relevant suggestions and completed this category removal adjustment.   According to the legislative process, the draft still needs to complete the statutory procedures: public consultation will begin in May 2026, with the final draft expected to be released in the summer; after the bill is published, the European Parliament and the Council will also enter a two-month objection review period.   The China Leather Industry Association will continue to monitor the progress of the EUDR process, strengthen collaboration with international industry organizations, actively participate in the public consultation process, consolidate the results of this negotiation, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of domestic leather enterprises, and ensure the stable and healthy development of bilateral leather trade between China and the EU.

1. Policy Overview   Effective May 1, 2026, China officially implements 100% tariff exemption on all products imported from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties. This landmark policy makes China the world’s first major economy to offer unilateral, unconditional, full-coverage zero tariffs to all African diplomatic partners and all least-developed countries (LDCs) with diplomatic relations.   Coverage Breakdown: 33 African LDCs: Zero tariffs effective December 1, 2024 (permanent) 20 Non-LDC African Nations: Zero tariffs May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2028 (preferential rate, quota-free for most goods; tariff-rate quota products duty-free only within quotas) List: Algeria, Botswana, Cape Verde, Cameroon, Congo (Brazzaville), Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Libya, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Seychelles, South Africa, Tunisia, Zimbabwe   2. Core Advantages for African Exporters ✅ 100% Product Coverage: Almost all goods (agricultural, manufactured, raw materials) qualify. ✅ No Political Strings: No mandatory reciprocity or political conditions. ✅ Simplified Customs: Electronic Certificate of Origin (COO) accepted; direct shipping required (no third-country entry/consumption). ✅ Lower Costs, Higher Competitiveness: Kenyan avocados, South African wine, Ivorian cocoa, Tanzanian cashews, and Egyptian citrus gain 0% tariff access to China’s 1.4-billion consumer market.   3. How to Claim Zero Tariffs (Imports to China) Valid COO: Issued by authorized African authorities (electronic/paper). Direct Shipment: Goods shipped directly from Africa to China; transshipment requires proof of no third-country trade/consumption. Customs Declaration: Declare “Preferential Tariff – Code 30” and submit COO. Note: Tariff = 0; VAT/excise taxes apply per regulations.   4. Strategic Significance For Africa: Boosts export revenues, creates jobs, and accelerates industrialization by unlocking China’s market For China: Expands supply of premium African goods (food, beverages, crafts) for consumers; strengthens South-South cooperation. For Global Trade: Counteracts protectionism, champions inclusive globalization, and advances the China-Africa Community with a Shared Future.   5. Official Endorsements H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, AUC Chair: “A timely, brotherly gesture to support Africa’s economic recovery.” Chinese Ministry of Commerce: “A milestone in China-Africa trade, driving $100B+ annual bilateral trade and shared growth.”   Ready to Export to China? Leverage this historic zero-tariff opportunity to expand your business in the world’s largest consumer market. For customs clearance guidance, COO application support, or product-specific tariff checks, contact our trade advisory team today.

To learn from advanced manufacturing management, process design, and market operation experiences, address pain points in industry development, and promote the transformation and upgrading of Guangdong's luggage industry towards high-end, branded, and intelligent development, a high-quality development exchange activity for the luggage industry in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area was recently held in Shenzhen. The activity, themed "Intelligent Manufacturing Improvement, Design Empowerment, and Channel Win-Win," was jointly organized by the Shenzhen Leather Industry Association, the Guangdong Leather Goods and Luggage Circulation Association, the Guangdong Leather Association, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Footwear and Bags Industry Alliance.   Industry Representatives Gather for On-Site Visits and In-Depth Exchanges   On April 24th, the event invited nearly 40 core leaders from over 20 representative companies in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, including luggage and leather goods retail brands, e-commerce brands, cross-border e-commerce companies, and high-quality foreign trade suppliers.   The event adopted a format of site visits + experience sharing + thematic seminars, visiting Huixiong Leather Products (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. and Belle Fashion Group Lirong Shoes (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. Participants visited Asia's largest bag R&D center, intelligent production workshop, quality control center, new materials and processes area, original design showroom, and brand operation center, gaining firsthand experience in digital transformation, lean production, original design, AI applications, and channel expansion.   On-site discussions focused on topics such as improving production efficiency, standardized quality control, and cost reduction, with in-depth exchanges on three core industry pain points: How can small and medium-sized bag enterprises implement digital transformation at low cost to solidify their quality foundation? How can Guangdong bag enterprises build their own brands and break free from homogeneous competition? How can the industry expand domestic and international sales channels and achieve market growth breakthroughs under the new circumstances?   Industry Association Perspectives: Deepening Differentiation and Collaborative Transformation and Upgrading   Li Ruilong, President of the Guangdong Leather Goods and Luggage Circulation Association, pointed out that local leather goods companies should leverage the Greater Bay Area's well-developed supply chain advantages to deeply cultivate niche markets and pursue a differentiated strategy; closely align with the demands of consumption upgrading, strengthen process upgrades, product innovation, and green R&D; adhere to quality as the foundation and originality as the core, accelerate the digital and intelligent transformation of production, and simultaneously deploy online content operation and brand communication to comprehensively enhance core competitiveness and contribute to the long-term high-quality development of the industry.   Guo Zhongjie, President of the Guangdong Leather Association and President of the Shenzhen Leather Industry Association, stated that this event is the first major joint event of provincial associations in 2026. The association will release industry development initiatives in due course, regulate industry order, advocate for collaborative development, open sharing, and cross-industry learning among enterprises; orderly promote the digital transformation of the industry, address development shortcomings, and improve flexible supply chains; enterprises need to increase R&D investment, leverage Guangdong's industrial agglomeration advantages, and expand into both domestic and international markets.   He specifically mentioned that although some production processes have relocated, the core R&D remains in Guangdong. The mature and complete industrial chain advantages are difficult to replace in the short term, providing a solid foundation for the industry's development. The association will regularly build a platform for exchange and cooperation, unite industry forces, support emerging forces, and encourage bold innovation and breakthroughs.     Enterprise Representatives Offer Suggestions Focusing on Intelligent Manufacturing, Originality, and Industry Self-Regulation   Liu Shengxian, representative of Huixiong Leather Goods, suggested that the association should take the lead in promoting the construction of industry digital standards and unite leading enterprises to resist low-price homogenization and infighting. Enterprises should adhere to innovation-driven development, strengthen original design and technological R&D, uphold quality standards, and pursue a high-quality development path. They should deepen industrial chain collaboration, implement new technologies such as AI intelligent pattern making and intelligent manufacturing, and empower industrial upgrading through digitalization.   Sun Lin, representative of Guangzhou Gete Software, gave a special presentation entitled "Upstream and Downstream Collaboration and AI Digital Upgrading," showcasing a one-stop digital implementation solution for the luggage industry from the dimensions of AI transformation, industrial chain collaboration, and practical cases, which received widespread recognition from the participants.   Demonstrating the Strength of Benchmark Enterprises and Building a Model for Industrial Development   Belle Fashion Group has established seven modern production bases, covering the Pearl River Delta, Central China, East China, and Southwest China, with a total area exceeding 1,000 acres, employing over 20,000 people, and operating 7,000 directly-owned stores nationwide. Its online channels are also rapidly growing.   The Shenzhen Lirong plant is a national high-tech enterprise and a provincial/municipal green factory, responsible for the R&D, testing, and core manufacturing of high-end footwear and bags. The seven bases complement each other, forming a large-scale, intelligent, full-chain production system, producing over 22 million pairs of finished shoes annually, with an annual manufacturing output value of approximately 12-14 billion yuan. Its lean manufacturing and full-chain layout solidify its leading position in the industry.   Huixiong Leather Goods belongs to the Hong Kong Da Hui Group, founded in 1957, with 69 years of experience in the industry. It entered Shenzhen in 1982, with Longgang District, Shenzhen, serving as the group's core R&D center and a major bag R&D center in Asia.   The group has production bases in Huizhou, Dongguan, Bangladesh, and Cambodia, employing over 10,000 people. It has long provided R&D, design, and OEM services to international and luxury brands. Its overseas bases have extensively introduced intelligent digital equipment and are simultaneously promoting the construction of green and low-carbon facilities such as photovoltaics and water recycling, practicing sustainable development concepts. It has become a leading leather goods OEM enterprise in Asia.   Industry Outlook: 2026 a pivotal year for brand rise   This event is another important initiative by the association to promote brand building in the industry, following its connection with the Paris headquarters of the French LVMH Group. Industry insiders generally believe that 2026 will be a crucial year for the comprehensive awakening of brand awareness in the domestic leather industry chain.   The ultimate goal of a company's long-term development is brand. Finding a differentiated positioning in a niche market is an effective path to break through the low-price competition and achieve healthy profitability. The current new generation of industry players is actively entering the market and engaging in pragmatic innovation, injecting new vitality into the Greater Bay Area's luggage industry and laying a solid foundation for the industry's high-end, branded, and intelligent development.

In recent years, sustainable fashion and environmentally friendly consumption have become mainstream globally. Many people mistakenly believe that leather production is environmentally unfriendly, but natural leather is actually a typical material for the circular economy.   Beef cattle farming is a core part of the meat supply chain, and cowhide is a natural byproduct of the livestock industry. Without proper recycling through tanning processes, large quantities of raw hides would be discarded and rot, resulting in biological waste and resource waste. Modern compliant tanneries have long achieved low-pollution, low-emission production, significantly reducing chemical hazards.   Compared to plastics and synthetic leathers, compliant genuine leather is naturally biodegradable and won't leave residues for centuries like artificial leather, which is difficult to decompose.   Choosing genuine leather goods essentially means reducing the disposable consumption of fast fashion items, extending the lifespan of individual pieces, and practicing a low-waste lifestyle.   Durable, recyclable, and naturally biodegradable, compliant genuine leather has long shed its old, polluting image and become an important part of global eco-friendly fashion.

Full-grain leather is recognized in the leather goods industry as the highest grade of natural cowhide.   It retains the original surface layer of the cow, without heavy sanding, buffing, or coating. It naturally possesses its own grain, pores, and fine growth lines, giving each piece a unique natural texture.   The dense and compact fiber structure makes it breathable, comfortable, tensile-resistant, and extremely durable. It is resistant to cracking, peeling, and deformation even with repeated bending and friction.   Its greatest feature lies in its natural aging effect: with long-term use against the skin and exposure to air and body temperature, the surface slowly develops a warm, vintage patina. The more it is used, the softer it becomes, and the more aged and sophisticated it appears, possessing an inherent beauty of time.   Currently, high-end leather belts, luxury bags, long wallets, and other fine leather goods mostly prioritize the use of full-grain leather. Natural and environmentally friendly, durable, and with a classic, timeless style, it is ideal for consumers who value quality and seek durable, long-lasting items.  

Leather Naturally has set an ambitious tone for World Leather Day 2026, transforming this global event into a dynamic, high-energy advocacy campaign aimed at uniting and inspiring the leather industry. This year's campaign places a strong emphasis on engagement and accessibility, designed to go beyond mere awareness building and encourage meaningful action.   The core theme of the campaign is "Make It Leather"—a clear call to action encouraging people to intentionally choose leather when durability, quality, and longevity are valued. Celebrated on April 29, World Leather Day brings together the entire value chain—from farmers and tanners to designers and consumers—highlighting the role leather plays in building a more responsible, less disposable economy.   The 2026 theme reflects a shift in mindset, responding to growing economic and environmental concerns. By emphasizing leather's repairability, natural sourcing, and the fact that it becomes more appealing over time, the campaign positions it as a practical and sustainable choice, contrasting sharply with fast fashion.   To support this campaign, Leather Naturally... The organization launched a dedicated digital hub, providing facts, inspiration, and debunking misconceptions, while simultaneously coordinating a global push across social media, public relations, and influencer platforms. With an "always-on" strategy, the event will build momentum throughout the year.   The event aims to engage the entire ecosystem—including businesses, designers, students, and artisans—and provides toolkits and creative materials to encourage broad participation and a unified message.   Ultimately, World Leather Day 2026 is not just about visibility, but about impact. It aims to foster pride within the industry, inspire future talent, and solidify leather's position as a material that blends tradition, innovation, and enduring relevance.

As a core leather goods industry cluster in China, Guangzhou is accelerating the transformation and upgrading of its professional markets, breaking away from traditional wholesale models and moving towards a new stage of industrial empowerment, brand incubation, and global trade.   Based on a complete industrial chain, Guangzhou's leather goods industry highly values ​​original design and intellectual property protection. Zhonggang Leather City, a national-level standardized intellectual property market, has successfully incubated hundreds of local original leather goods brands, forming a mature industrial ecosystem of design sharing, complementary production capacity, and interconnected channels.   By connecting the entire process from design and R&D, precision production, brand operation, and global order matching, and combining international activities such as international sourcing festivals and fashion resource linkages, Guangzhou leather goods companies have continuously improved their foreign trade competitiveness and achieved steady growth in foreign trade performance.   With the support of city policies, the local leather goods industry continues to broaden its overseas expansion channels, combining online cross-border connections with offline exhibition receptions, and providing one-stop foreign trade support services such as customs declaration, logistics, and foreign exchange settlement, efficiently connecting with global buyers.   Today, Guangzhou's leather goods industry is advancing towards high-end, branded, and international markets, building a complete industrial cluster from raw materials to finished products, from original customization to global delivery. This provides overseas clients with high-quality, original, and customizable leather goods products and a stable supply chain.   Our company is rooted in Guangzhou's leather goods industrial belt, leveraging our mature supply chain, strict quality control, and original design advantages. We focus on export customization and bulk supply of genuine leather belts, bags, and leather accessories, and are dedicated to serving our global sourcing partners.

Recently, the International Leather Council, together with global industry organizations in the meat, raw hide, and leather sectors, submitted a joint letter to the European Commission, focusing on the impact of the EU Zero Forest Deforestation Act (EUDR) on international trade in cowhide and leather. The CLEIA has actively responded to this industry-wide joint action.   The core demands of this joint letter are: to remove all cowhide, raw hide, and leather products under the Customs HS41 category from the Annex 1 control list of the EU Zero Forest Deforestation Act; and to request that the EU not add any new sheepskin, goatskin, and related leather products to the list.   The global leather industry unanimously argues that there is currently no scientific evidence to prove a direct link between raw hide and leather production and deforestation. Forcibly including leather products in the control list will not achieve the goal of preventing deforestation and will instead create unreasonable technical barriers to trade.   The European leather industry is highly dependent on imported raw materials, and the Act's stringent geographical requirements and full-chain traceability requirements are difficult for most global suppliers to implement. High compliance costs will drive up tanning production costs in the EU, weaken industry competitiveness, and even lead to factory closures and job losses.   Furthermore, excessive regulation will force a large amount of high-quality raw hides to be discarded or inefficiently processed, exacerbating carbon emissions and forcing the market to use highly polluting petrochemical synthetic materials, completely contradicting the EU's original intention of a circular economy and green development.   The global leather goods industry is calling on the EU to reassess the policy's impact objectively, remove unreasonable restrictions on leather raw materials, and ensure the stable, compliant, and sustainable trade development of the global leather supply chain.

On April 17th, the General Administration of Customs released the latest export data for China's leather industry in January-February 2026. The data shows that since the beginning of the year, China's leather exports have rebounded strongly, with continuous structural optimization, achieving a good start of "both volume and price increases, and profit upgrades." This fully demonstrates the strong resilience and high-quality development momentum of China's leather industry, with compliant, high-value-added products becoming the core engine driving export growth.   As a core export category, leather apparel performed particularly well. Data shows that in January-February 2026, China exported 843,000 pieces of leather apparel, a year-on-year increase of 53.3%; the export value reached US$28.317 million, a surge of 100.0% year-on-year, achieving more than double the export value; the export unit price increased to US$33.6 per piece, a year-on-year increase of 30.4%. This data clearly reflects the effectiveness of China's leather apparel industry's transformation from "low-end volume" to "high-end quality improvement," with a significant increase in product added value and market competitiveness.   From an industry-wide perspective, in January and February 2026, China's leather industry (including bags, shoes, belts, gloves, and other categories) achieved total exports of US$14.7 billion, a year-on-year increase of 11.9%; the trade surplus reached US$12.18 billion, a year-on-year increase of 13.7%, indicating continued improvement in export profitability and a positive overall development trend.   In terms of export market layout, a distinct pattern emerged: "high-end markets leading the way, and emerging markets gaining momentum." Specifically, exports to the EU increased by 19.9% ​​year-on-year, and exports to ASEAN increased by 20.3% year-on-year, with ASEAN officially becoming China's largest trading partner for leather products. Exports to countries along the Belt and Road Initiative increased by 20% year-on-year, demonstrating the continued release of potential in emerging markets and becoming a new driving force for export growth. Affected by tariffs and global supply chain adjustments, exports to the US market declined by 16.9% year-on-year, indicating a clear market differentiation.   It is worth noting that this export data also confirms the core development trend of the industry: Currently, the market share of low-end, high-volume products continues to shrink, while high-priced, high-value-added products have become the main export drivers; compliance premiums are becoming increasingly prominent, with suppliers possessing new national standards, OEKO-TEX® certification, and EUDR deforestation traceability qualifications seeing a significant increase in order share, and compliance has become a core competitive advantage for enterprises to seize international markets. In the future, with the continuous upgrading of China's leather industry and the ongoing improvement of its compliance system, export growth momentum is expected to continue, driving higher-quality development of Chinese leather products in the global market.

From April 8th to 16th, 2026, the global leather industry reached a crucial juncture in the commercialization of bio-based materials. International luxury brands and domestic enterprises worked together to propel bio-based leather from the laboratory research stage to large-scale production. This not only leads the industry towards a low-carbon and sustainable transformation but also serves as an important indicator of high-quality development in the global leather industry.   Internationally, Hermès and Kering jointly held a global online launch event, officially announcing the large-scale production of mycelium leather. This milestone breakthrough signifies that bio-based leather has moved beyond a niche concept and officially entered the mainstream supply chain of luxury brands. Mycelium leather uses natural fungal mycelium as its core raw material, growing naturally through controlled laboratory cultivation technology. The entire process eliminates the need for farming and slaughtering, reducing the environmental burden of traditional leather production from the source. Its production process reduces carbon emissions by approximately 85% compared to traditional cowhide leather, with no wastewater or exhaust emissions, and avoids the use of harmful chemicals such as chromium and formaldehyde, perfectly aligning with the global trend of green consumption upgrading. Simultaneously, the material's texture, toughness, and breathability are fully comparable to top-grade calfskin, requiring no additional processing modifications and can be directly used in the production of high-end bags, belts, shoes, and other luxury goods. Currently, both brands have established dedicated production bases in Europe with an annual capacity of 1 million square meters, fully meeting the bulk demand of their high-end product lines. It is projected that by the end of 2026, 30% of their accessory lines will fully utilize this type of bio-based material, further driving the green transformation of the global luxury leather goods market.   Domestically, industry leaders such as Shenzhen Pufei Biotechnology and Zhejiang Jiake New Materials are simultaneously focusing on the resource utilization of agricultural waste such as coffee grounds, banana peels, and corn stalks, forging a unique path of localized innovation for bio-based leather. These companies, through core processes such as bio-fermentation and modification, have transformed previously difficult-to-process agricultural waste into high-performance bio-based leather raw materials, achieving a raw material utilization rate of up to 95%. This effectively solves the environmental challenges of agricultural waste treatment and significantly reduces reliance on natural leather and petroleum-based synthetic leather. Some of these companies have successfully obtained the highest level (four-star) OK BIOBASED bio-based material certification from the European Union. Thanks to their excellent environmental performance and product quality, they have successfully entered the supply chains of top global luxury brands such as Balenciaga and Boucheron, and have also expanded into multiple application areas such as furniture and 3C electronic casings, achieving high-value-added breakthroughs. Currently, the annual production capacity of bio-based leather in China has reached 10 million meters, forming a complete industrial chain from raw material research and development, production and processing to market application, achieving industrialization and large-scale development, and laying a solid foundation for Chinese leather goods companies to participate in global green competition.   The large-scale production and widespread application of bio-based leather not only marks a significant step forward for the global leather industry towards low-carbon and sustainable development, but also brings new development opportunities to domestic and foreign leather goods companies, propelling the industry into a new stage of green innovation.