India is one of the world’s strongest players in leather export from India, backed by skilled craftsmanship, a strong raw material base and global demand for fashion accessories. As consumers increasingly seek premium footwear, bags and leather garments, businesses in India have a strong opportunity to grow through leather goods exports and high-value product categories.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know before entering the market  from compliance to government support to choosing the right export strategy - so you can build a profitable brand in global trade.

Why Export Leather from India?

India holds major advantages that make leather export from India highly competitive:

• A large supply of raw hides due to one of the world’s biggest livestock populations

• Centuries-old tradition of leather craftsmanship

• Lower production costs compared to Europe and the US

• Strong demand for footwear, bags and leather product exports

These factors keep Indian leather goods exports in steady demand across global retail and fashion markets.

Understanding the Leather Export Market

The leather export sector is classified into several high-demand segments:

• Finished leather

• Leather footwear

• Leather garment exports

• Saddlery and harness goods

• Exports of leather products, including wallets, belts, and backpacks;

• Uholstery leather for cars and furniture

Besides, export of sustainable and eco-friendly leather goods are rapidly growing, mainly in North America and Europe, where restrictions are being tightened.

Top Leather Export Destinations

India exports to a wide set of international markets. The most important destinations for leather goods exports include:

• USA

• Germany

• Italy

• France

• Netherlands

• UK

• UAE

• Spain

• Australia

Exports of leather clothing, fashion accessories, and shoes are in high demand in these nations.

Most Popular Leather Export Products

The following are the most popular categories in which India export leather:

• Leather sandals, boots, and shoes for formal occasions

• Handbags, wallets, and belts

• Jackets and other leather garment exports

• Saddlery and harness products

• Finished leather

Footwear is currently the largest contributor to total leather product exports.

How to Export Handicrafts from India

Compliance and Registration for Leather Exporters

To legally engage in leather goods exports, every exporter must meet certain compliance requirements:

These process guarantee a seamless export procedure and prevent delays at customs. Joining the Council for Leather Exports (CLE)

The Council for Leather Exports is considered the main Indian body that encourages the export of leather goods. The major Indian organization that promotes the export of leather goods is the Council for Leather Exports. Although not required, CLE registration offers a number of benefits.

• Access to export incentives and government support

• Participation in global trade fairs under subsidy

• Buyer–seller networking programs

• Market intelligence reports

• Subsidies for technology upgrades and testing

For any new exporter entering leather export from India, CLE membership can be extremely valuable.

Make Your GST Refunds Faster and Hassle-Free

Most leather exporters handle GST refund claims regularly — especially when shipping to high-volume markets. These claims often fall under the GST Export Refund category, and even a small documentation error can delay the entire cycle. When refunds get stuck, your working capital takes the hit.

Here’s the thing: your export business shouldn’t slow down because of refund complications.

MYGST Refund helps exporters file GST refunds with ease, track real-time refund status, minimise claim rejections, and maintain predictable cash flow. For a leather export operation, financial speed is everything and this platform keeps your GST Export Refund cycle moving without unnecessary delays.

Start simplifying your GST refund process with MYGST Refund, India’s #1 automated platform built to keep your export cash flow running without interruption.

The Final Thought

The global market for leather product exports is expanding rapidly due to increasing demand for premium fashion products. India’s strong manufacturing capability, skilled workforce and government-backed support make it one of the best places to build a worldwide leather brand.

Businesses can efficiently expand through leather goods exports and benefit on rising global opportunities with the right compliance structure, market research, and export strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who shall export leather out of India?

Any registered company with an IEC and required compliance can export leather products.

2. Are exporters required to be registered in CLE?

Strongly recommended but not mandatory, as it provides several advantages and export incentives.

3. What is the duration of registration for CLE?

CLE membership usually takes 3 to 7 working days depending on document verification.

4. What are the top nations using Indian leather products?

India main importers of leather goods are the United States, Germany, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

5. What programmes is the government providing in India for new exporters? 

Schemes include RoDTEP, Duty Drawback, EPCG, and MAI support programs to help exporters reduce cost and grow globally.