Leather Sector Development Strategy for the Leather Industry in Sindh 

The leather industry in Sindh has the potential to become a global leader but to reach this goal, a structured and strategic approach is required. A set of high-priority recommendations has been identified by stakeholders, focusing on foundational reforms that will set the stage for long-term development. Under the Leather Sector Development Strategy, stakeholders have identified key activities that can drive the leather sector forward. This document is part of Livestock Development Strategies under EU Funded GRASP Project.

Leather Sector Development Strategy – Way Forward

Policy and Regulatory Reforms

One of the first steps in transforming Sindh’s leather industry is to revise the existing policies and regulations. The Sindh Local Government Act, 2013 should be amended to transfer the responsibility for public sector slaughterhouses from local government entities to the Government of Sindh. This shift in responsibility will ensure more streamlined governance and oversight of slaughterhouse operations. Additionally, the Sindh Animals Slaughter Control (Amendment) Act, 2004 should be revised to empower the Department of Livestock and Fisheries (DoLF) to enforce animal slaughter regulations, particularly focusing on protecting useful animals and managing other slaughtering practices.

Livestock Development Strategies – Dairy – Meat – FMD Control 

Institutional Strengthening

To improve the effectiveness of the DoLF and strengthen its role in the sector, the Planning and Development Department of Sindh must allocate increased financial resources. This will enable the DoLF to provide essential training for staff on modern slaughterhouse practices and international standards for meat processing. This is especially important in remote areas, where best practices are often lacking. Furthermore, the creation of a Leather Advisory Subcommittee under the Sindh Leather Development Council (LDC) will provide a platform for public-private dialogue, fostering collaboration between industry players, academia, and the government to guide sector development.

ٹیکنالوجی کا فقدان چمڑے کی معیاری پروسسنگ میں رکاوٹ

Capacity Building and Sustainability

To ensure the leather sector thrives in a competitive market, investment in training and skill development is crucial. A training program on professional animal slaughtering and zero-defect H&S (hides and skins) flaying technology should be rolled out to improve the quality of leather production. By partnering with international experts and offering certification, the program will enhance the overall standards of slaughterhouses in Sindh, with awards presented to the best performers. Additionally, sustainability must be a core focus. The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) should conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment of tanneries in the province. This will help identify pollution sources, such as effluent treatment issues, and set the stage for sustainable practices in the industry.

قربانی کی کھالوں کی حفاظت ، قربانی کی کھال کو نمک لگانے کا مکمل طریقہ

Enhancing Leather Collection and Distribution

For the leather industry to grow, a more organized collection and distribution system for hides and skins (H&S) is essential. The Pakistan Tanners Association (Southern Zone) (PTA SZ) should support the establishment of a H&S Collectors Association. This body will represent collectors in their dealings with the government and the PTA, and over time, it will implement a licensing program that certifies collectors based on established criteria. Such an association will help improve bargaining power, facilitate training, and strengthen the lobbying efforts of the sector.

Investment in Infrastructure

To improve the overall infrastructure of the leather industry, a feasibility study should be conducted to explore the possibility of establishing a new processing zone in Hyderabad, a central location that could help streamline operations. The study should assess the availability of raw materials and the necessary infrastructure to support leather processing, ensuring that the new zone can handle the scale of operations required for a thriving industry.

سلاٹر ہاؤس فضلے کا کھاد کے طور پر استعمال اور پیرا سائیٹس کا کنٹرول، ویٹرنری کالج نارووال میں سیمینار

Strategy – Impact on the Leather Industry in Sindh 

These recommendations of the Leather Sector Development Strategy, if implemented effectively, will lay a solid foundation for the future growth of the leather industry in Sindh. By strengthening the policy framework, improving industry practices, building capacity at all levels, and fostering sustainable practices, Sindh can become a major player in the global leather market. With the right investments and collaborations, the leather industry can drive economic growth, create jobs, and ensure long-term sustainability for the region.

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Editor In Chief

Dr. Jassar Aftab is a qualified Veterinarian having expertise in veterinary communication. He is a renowned veterinary Journalist of Pakistan. He is veterinary columnist, veterinary writer and veterinary analyst. He is the author of three books. He has written a number of articles and columns on different topics related to livestock, dairy, poultry, wildlife, fisheries, food security and different aspects of animal sciences and veterinary education.

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