INDUSTRY STATISTICS

Over the last 15 years the New Zealand Tanning Industry has rapidly increased the share of hides and skins that are processed before being exported from
New Zealand.

In 1985 processed hides and skins comprised 32% of total exports of hides and skins (by value). By 2000 this had increased to 52%. While there has been growth in the level of exports of finished leathers and woolskins, the fastest growth has been in exports of wet blue hides and skins.

Exports of wet blue hides increased from $73 million in 1985 to $147 million in 2000 while exports of wet blue lamb and sheep skins increased from $20 million to $47 million over the same period.

Italy is the largest market for exports of processed hides and skins, taking 42% of wet blue, finished leather and woolskin exports.

Other major markets include Australia, China, Hong Kong, the USA and Vietnam.

Australia is the main market for exports of finished hide leather, although exports have grown to China, Italy, Fiji and the USA. Exports are primarily destined for the footwear and furniture industries.

Exports of finished lamb and sheep skin leathers go to a much wider range of markets. Garment manufacturers in China, Korea, Indonesia, USA and Australia are the principle customers for this sector.

Woolskin floor rugs continue to be a major export item for the woolskin sector, reaching $15 million in 2000. Exports of woolskins for processing by other manufacturers for clothing, footwear and a wide range of woolskin articles are now the most important component of exports by the sector. Total exports in 2000 were $50 million.

A detailed statistical handbook on the tanning industry is produced by the New Zealand Tanners Association and can be purchased for NZ$150.00.

Click here for an extract of the latest statistical Data