Turkish leather exports reach $723 million in 2002

The Turkish leather sector is on the road to recovery. According to ITKIB data, the leather sector was worth US$748.2 million in terms of leather and leather products exports in 2002, up 5.2% compared with 2001. This is the highest export figure since 1997's total of $723.8 million. Industry sources reveal that these figures have made the leather sector feel slightly relieved but, nevertheless, it is still necessary to go beyond this figure in terms of future objectives and available potential. According to 2002 TIM figures, leather and leather products exports are twelfth highest among the countries export sectors and recorded the highest percentage increase with 15.2%. The highest increases were noted in particular in October and December due to the influences of different seasons. However, the biggest disadvantage of the Turkish industry turning its attention towards fashion, the country is importing 70% of its raw materials. Looking at the different sectors within the industry, leather garments claimed a 69% share, generating $508 million, compared with 67% in 2001. Footwear exports came second with 18% and $132 million, while leathergoods claimed 8%. Leather and leather products exports to the northern markets increased by 56.4%. Russia's share in total leather and leather products exports climbed to a 20.8% share in 2001 from 16.1% in 2000, while it reached 30.8% in 2002. Türkiye's exports to the Ukraine decreased by 42.4%, despite climbing by 154% in 2001, due to a fall in footwear and accessories. According to data from ITKIB, footwear and accessories make up about 70% of Türkiye's exports to the Ukraine, followed by fur and fur products. Germany ranked highest in the EU countries with an increase of 3.07%, but exports to France fell by 1.39%. Exports to the Netherlands climbed significantly, while those to the UK fell by 10.16%. Total exports to the EU increase by 1.67%. Exports to OECD countries fell by 15.9%. In particular, exports of leather garments and leathergoods decreased, while exports of fur and fur products increased. A surge in exports of 18.9% to Saudi Arabia who mostly import footwear and accessories.