The exhibition also took place against a complex backdrop for the global leather industry. Economic slowdown, weak consumer confidence, shortages of energy and labour, shrinking orders in footwear and apparel, volatile hide prices, and rising environmental costs continue to weigh on the market. For the sector to remain competitive, it must cut costs, improve efficiency, and accelerate its transition towards greener, smarter, and more sustainable development.

Yet despite these pressures, exhibitors remained optimistic. Letícia Luft, Project Manager at Brazilian Leather, remarked: “There are more visitors this year, and I believe trade between China and Brazil will only grow stronger.” Meng Shengyi, Sales Manager at Foshan Yvonink, explained that the company had shifted its focus to automotive seating, making automotive leather buyers its main clients and driving growth. Dennis King, CEO of the Australian Hide, Skin and Leather Exporters Association, noted: “The absence of US exhibitors has created opportunities for us to expand our client base.”

For buyers, ACLE once again proved its value as a one-stop sourcing platform. Zhang Wen, CMF Designer at Sky Dream RV, commented: “The greatest value of such events is the ability to compare many companies side by side, which saves me significant time.” Beyond sourcing, buyers also benefitted from the exhibition’s forums and technical sessions, which provided early insights into emerging trends and risks shaping the industry’s future.