HS Code:
This category pertains to whole, tanned bovine hides, either full grain unsplit or grain splits, in the dry state (crust), not further prepared after tanning or crusting. The hides have a unit surface area ranging from 5.11 mยฒ to 6.04 mยฒ and are certified by the importer specifically for use in the production of upholstery. Classified under HS Code 4104.41.50, these hides are critical raw materials in the leather upholstery industry, used primarily for furniture, automotive seating, and other interior applications requiring durable and high-quality leather.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$320 million USD
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable leather
Increased preference for hides processed with eco-friendly tanning methods, driving up costs but also market value for certified products.
2021-2023
Growth in automotive upholstery sector
Higher demand from automotive manufacturers for premium leather upholstery, especially in luxury vehicle segments, boosting trade volumes.
2020-2022
Shift towards synthetic alternatives
Emerging competition from vegan leather and synthetic materials, slightly reducing demand in cost-sensitive markets.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter REACH regulations on chemical usage in leather tanning, impacting exporters to the region.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries.
A new bilateral trade agreement reduced tariffs on bovine hides between Brazil and India, facilitating higher export volumes.
March 2022
Boosted Brazilโs market share in Asia, especially for upholstery-grade leather.
Post-COVID recovery in the US automotive industry led to a surge in demand for upholstery leather.
Mid-2022
Increased imports from key suppliers like Italy and Brazil, driving up trade volumes.