Leatherworking in Côte d'Ivoire is a fast-growing sector that is currently being organized.
Craftsmen in the leather and hide sector are now grouped into a single entity, the Union nationale des cordonniers, maroquiniers, bottiers et tanneurs de Côte d'Ivoire (U.C.M.B.T-CI). The aim of this union is to organize and develop the craft trades sector.
The leather and hide sector is poorly regarded, even though it provides many jobs. Most of its players operate in the informal sector.
U.C.M.B.T-CI also plans to organize the Salon de l'artisanat du cuir and initiate training seminars for its members.
These initiatives aim to promote leatherworking in Côte d'Ivoire and support local craftsmen. However, much remains to be done to develop this sector, particularly in terms of training and structuring the industry.