KARACHI, Aug 11: The exports of leather garments, which were on persistent decline reaching up to 34pc, have shown some recovery in July 2003, when exports were down by only 12 per cent over the corresponding period last year.

According to official figures, leather garments exports during July 2003, stood at $20.93 million as compared to $23.75 million in the same period last year.

Export of leather garments remained under pressure during past one year. In July-June 2003 exports stood at $211 million as against $321 million registered during July-June 2002.

The chairman, Pakistan Leather Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PLGMEA) Fawad Ijaz Khan said the global market of leather garments had slightly increased during last one year and was expected to improve further.

He said that this could be verified from the fact that leather garments exports from China in recent months had increased.

PLGMEA chief said that there was tremendous potential for export of leather garments in the world market.