The 2026 edition of APLF Hong Kong (12–14 March) once again confirmed that the leather industry continues to withstand current market pressures while demonstrating strong potential for future growth. Across discussions and presentations, one theme clearly emerged: the bioeconomy represents a promising pathway forward for the sector, reinforcing leather’s role as a natural, circular and bio-based material.
Global coordination through the International Council of Tanners
Ahead of the fair, COTANCE participated in the International Council of Tanners (ICT) meeting, which brought together under the Chairmanship of Burak Uyguner (Türkiye) the representatives of national leather associations from Europe, North and South America, Asia and Africa.
The discussions addressed key developments affecting the sector, including regulatory changes in major leather markets, in particular the EU and the US, chemicals management, global industry statistics and World leather trade dynamics. Particular attention was given to the upcoming developments surrounding the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). A new Position Statement on the EUDR is to follow.
The message from the meeting was clear: the global leather industry remains more than ever united and aligned and prepared to act together on shared challenges.
Addressing skills and education challenges
During the fair, COTANCE also took the stage at the Leather Supply Chain Conference, co-hosted by International Leather Maker and APLF, as well as on the APLF main stage.
Presentations highlighted how the European leather industry is responding to the growing education and skills challenge through the EU-funded METASKILLS4TCLF project. The COTANCE participation in the project focuses on modernising training, updating vocational curricula, integrating digital technologies such as AI and immersive learning tools, and strengthening workforce skills through reskilling and upskilling programmes not only in tanning, but across the textiles, clothing, leather and footwear sectors.
Scientific progress for the leather value chain
APLF also marked the launch of two new important initiatives in the leather industry:
- a new European initiative led by UNIC - Concerie Italiane in cooperation with Spin 360: The Leather Leaders project.
- a new US initiative led by LHCA in cooperation with several organisations, including CLIA: The Institute for Data Integrity (IDI).
These aim to advance scientific understanding of key issues affecting the future of the leather supply chain, including:
- the environmental impact of leather recycling a by-product of the food industry
- providing a central repository for the value chain's datasets that can act as a global reference
- comparisons between life-cycle assessment methodologies for natural and fossil-based materials
- the role of biogenic carbon in environmental accounting
- the importance of durability and ecodesign in sustainable product design
Preparing for World Leather Day
The event also served as an opportunity to begin preparations for World Leather Day (29 April). Leather Naturally focusses this year’s campaign on the shift of the sector's narrative from volume to value, from disposability to durability, and from trend-driven consumption to long-term craftsmanship.
A moment to celebrate leadership
Beyond strategic discussions, APLF Hong Kong 2026 also became a moment of recognition and appreciation. The global leather community used the gathering to express its gratitude to Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano, Secretary General of COTANCE, for his outstanding leadership and dedication to the industry over many years.
Colleagues and partners from around the world took the opportunity to thank him for his commitment to strengthening the voice of the leather sector, fostering international cooperation and advancing sustainability and innovation across the value chain.
Strengthening a global voice for leather
Next to Lineapelle, APLF once again proved to be one of the key platforms for global dialogue, industry strategy and convergence. For COTANCE, it offered a valuable opportunity to engage with international partners, exchange insights and reinforce a united global voice for leather — ensuring the sector continues to lead in sustainability, innovation and competitiveness.