Kenya, India to enhance collaboration in leather sector development

 

The Council for Leather Export India (CLE)

The Council for Leather Export India (CLE) is targeting to work with Kenya to explore potential areas for collaboration such as value addition to boost the country’s leather exports.

India targets to leverage Kenya’s abundant raw materials and favorable business ecosystem to grow the industry by encouraging Indian companies to invest in the country’s leather value chain.

According to CLE, achieving growth in the leather industry requires investment in specialized machinery and the cultivation of local talent.

“These investments will enhance production efficiency and ensure that African leather products meet international standards, thereby boosting their competitiveness in global markets,” said CLE.

During the recent Real Leather Stay Different exhibition held in Nairobi, Indian companies were advised to focus on value addition in Kenya’s leather industry, citing local government support and potential partnerships.

Close collaboration was identified as key in helping the industry overcome existing challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Other areas of partnerships which are to be explored include those between local businesses and international investors, as well as support from government bodies.

Additionally, there were calls to establish strong, on-the-ground relationships through repeated visits to Kenya in a bid to find local trade partners.

The two also seek to promote Africa Top Designers competition to African leather players. The competition is backed to help cast a spotlight on talent and innovation within the industry by driving further interest and investment.

“Increased participation will not only highlight the industry’s capabilities but also inspire new ideas and creativity,” added CLE.

The High Commission of India has further called for local engagement on trade inquiries which could facilitate opening of new markets and foster stronger bilateral trade relationships.

By Ronald Owili