However, Thai leather product manufacturers are facing not only competition from high-end and low-cost manufacturers in Europe and within Asia, but also the challenges of high production costs from imported raw materials and restrictions imposed by brand owners. These factors are hindering the implementation of more aggressive manufacturing and marketing policies and plans.
Hence, the Thai Leathergoods Association has teamed up with the Ministry of Commerce's Department of Export Promotion (DEP) to tackle challenges that Thai leather product manufacturers are facing in order to develop long-term sustainable growth within the industry.
DEP's strategies are to encourage Thai entrepreneurs to develop and maintain product quality, produce creative designs and fine craftsmanship in conjunction with developing their own brands and designers in order to enable Thai leather products to sustain competitiveness in the world market place.
Moreover, DEP and the Thai Leathergoods Association initiated the 1st Creative Accessories Contest: Bags and Shoes this year in order to showcase the winning leather products, designed for the European market, at the BIFF&BIL 2006 event in the Design in Thailand pavilion, signifying sincere support from the Thai government to the country's export leather industry.
The Design in Thailand exhibition is among many other intriguing and creative showcases featuring products and textiles from the Thai fashion andleather industries such as Thai Tex Trend (T³), Thai Cluster, Young Designers Room and OTOP Exhibition, which can be seen at the BIFF&BIL 2006.
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