India eases export norms for leather sector to boost competitiveness

Through Notification No. 15/2025-26 dated May 26, 2026, the DGFT has lifted port restrictions, permitting the export of finished leather, wet blue leather, and EI tanned leather from all ports and Inland Container Depots (ICDs). Previously, such exports were allowed only from specified ports.

Additionally, the mandatory testing and certification requirement by the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) for exporting various processed leather categories has been scrapped. These measures, initially introduced to differentiate between raw and value-added leather, have been deemed redundant following the removal of export duties and clearer distinctions in product types.

The decision, made after consultations with the Council for Leather Exports, CLRI, and key stakeholders, is expected to streamline procedures, lower transaction costs, and particularly benefit MSME exporters. It also aligns with India’s goal of strengthening its position in the global leather value chain.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (KD)