Mexico's Tanning Industry Focuses on Innovation and Sustainability at Leon Meet

Mexico's tanning industry is placing greater emphasis on technological advancement, environmental performance and production efficiency as industry professionals gather in Leon, Guanajuato, for the 34th National Tanning Meeting.

Held on 28-29 October 2026, the meeting brought together more than 200 companies, along with tannery owners, technical specialists, chemical suppliers and other stakeholders from across the leather value chain. The program provided a platform to exchange technical knowledge, discuss emerging industry challenges and explore solutions to improve manufacturing processes.

The importance of Guanajuato to Mexico's leather industry is reflected in its export contribution. The state accounts for approximately 60% of the country's leather and hide exports, making it a major center for tanning and related manufacturing activities. León, in particular, has developed a strong industrial base around leather and footwear production.

Organized by the Association of Leather Chemists and Technicians of Leon (AQTCL), in coordination with the Guanajuato State Chamber of the Tanning Industry (CICUR), the meeting features 15 specialized presentations and is expected to attract more than 300 participants.

Technology and sustainability on the agenda

The program addresses several areas directly linked to the operational and commercial performance of tanneries. Discussions cover developments in tanning and finishing processes, chemical products, raw materials, specialized machinery, quality control and production costs.

Environmental sustainability and the circular economy are also among the key themes. As manufacturers face increasing expectations concerning resource consumption, waste management and environmental compliance, improvements in production technology and process efficiency are becoming important considerations for the sector.

The event provides an opportunity for manufacturers and technical experts to exchange practical knowledge, assess emerging solutions and discuss how new technologies can be incorporated into existing production systems.

Strengthening the industry's competitiveness

The meeting also reflects the importance of closer engagement between businesses, technical institutions and government bodies in supporting industrial development.

The Municipality of Leon, through its General Directorate of Economy, is working alongside industry organizations to support local manufacturers, encourage technological adoption and create opportunities for business development.

For Guanajuato, maintaining the strength of its tanning industry has wider economic significance, given the sector's contribution to exports and its close links with the region's leather goods and footwear manufacturing base.

As the industry navigates changing market expectations and growing sustainability requirements, the discussions in Leon highlight the need to combine technical expertise, investment and innovation to sustain Mexico's position in the international leather market.