Leather Industry in India, occupies a place of prominence in the Indian economy, in view of its massive potential for employment, growth and exports. India employs 2.5 million people. The industry is dominated (60-65%) by units in small and cottage sector. This sector is amongst the top 8 revenue earners for the country. India has 10% of the world raw material and the exports constitute about 2% of the world trade. There has been increasing emphasis on its planned development, aimed at optimum utilization of available raw materials for maximizing the returns, particularly from exports.

Some of the prominent products exported are:

Leather Footwear

Footwear Components (Shoe Uppers, Soles etc.)

Leather Garments

Leather Goods (Including Harness & Saddlery, Leather Gloves etc.)

Finished Leather

Tamil Nadu has a dominant presence in the leather and leather based industries. The tanning industry in India has a total installed capacity of 225 million pieces of hide and skins of which Tamil Nadu alone contributes to an inspiring 70%. Leather industry occupies a pride of place in the industrial map of Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu enjoys a leading position with 40% share in India's export.