Chinese tariffs on leather goods imports fall in 2004

    According to statistics released by the Chinese Leather Industry Association (CLIA), import tariffs on leather fell by 0.3% on average in 2004 to reach an average rate of 12.2%. The CLIA sees this downward trend as very positive as these statistics, which cover hides, finished and semi-finished leather, shoes, leather garments, fur and fur products, shoe accessories, leather chemicals and machinery, are likely to stimulate imports into the country.



An increase in imports is seen as particularly positive for the fur industry that has seen a 3% drop in import tariffs in an attempt to encourage more imports. Official statistics show that fur imports increased 111% January to November 2004 compared with the same period in the previous year, to reach $4.2 billion.



Meanwhile, the 31st edition of the China International Fur Goods Fair took place in Beijing January 11-15. Over 182 local businesses and 48 American companies exhibited at the show and visitors included buyers from the USA, Canada, Russia and Australia.