Portugal’s tannery exports gain momentum in 2025

Portuguese tannery exports grew by 5.8% year-on-year up to September 2025, reflecting the recovery in external demand and the ongoing efforts of the sector to modernise production.

Portuguese tannery exports grew by 5.8% in 2025. By September, the sector had exported €81 million, primarily to Spain (down by 4.6% to €17 million), Italy (up by 8.7% to €13 million), and France (up by 31.2% to €11 million).

According to the APICCAPS (Portuguese Footwear, Components, Leather Goods Manufacturers’ Association) Research Office, “this performance reflects the recovery in external demand and the ongoing efforts to modernise production and adapt to global quality and sustainability requirements”.

This growth suggests that Portuguese leather companies are regaining their competitive edge despite recent challenges, such as market volatility and cost pressures. The sector’s resilience is revealed by its ability to maintain high quality standards, comply with European norms, and respond quickly to the needs of demanding customers.

Strategically, this advance in tannery exports benefits not only the tanneries themselves, but also the entire production chain. “A strong leather industry ensures the supply of high-quality raw materials to domestic manufacturers, thereby strengthening the sector’s global competitiveness”, says APICCAPS.