Frank Boehly, President of the Conseil National du Cuir (National Leather Council): commented: "The export results for 2015 are very encouraging for our industry and illustrate the dynamism and creativity of our sector. However, we must continue to maintain our savoir-faire, strengthen our efforts to obtain more high quality skins and carry on promoting items that are Made in France”.

According to information released by the Conseil National du Cuir, exports of leather goods generated roughly 5.6 billion euros, representing 60% of the sector’s exports. After two difficult years for the luxury sector, exports from the leather goods industry are once again experiencing significant growth, showing an increase of 11%. Sales to the United States, Singapore and the United Kingdom increased by 24%, 31% and 30%, respectively.

The slowdown in demand from Hong Kong is confirmed, as exports to the country shrank by 12% in 2014 and 9% in 2015. Sales to Japan are starting to show positive developments, with an increase of 4%.

In value terms, sales of handbags have increased by 14%, mainly driven by a boom in demand from the United States (+41%). Sales of small leather goods have collapsed for the three main clients: exports to the United States, Japan and Hong Kong fell by 15%, 23% and 28%, respectively.

Exports of footwear grew by 8% in volume and 19% in value terms, mainly driven by an average transaction value that was up by 10%. Some of these sales are re-exports, and as such the increase in the average import price was reflected in the export price. The strongest growth was in footwear with textile uppers and synthetic uppers (not including slippers) experiencing 71% and 31% growth respectively (in value terms). Exports of shoes with leather uppers grew by 9%.