Lagos Leather Fair 2026 Enhances African Leather Industry

The Lagos Leather Fair 2026 commenced on June 27, focusing on mapping the future of the African leather industry through artificial intelligence and compliance with global standards. The fair aims to connect international buyers, policymakers, and artisans to overcome barriers limiting growth.

Legal experts discussed the importance of compliance for African brands to access Western and Asian markets. Workshops led by industry leaders demonstrated how AI can transform the leather sector, including predictive analytics for fashion trends and smart manufacturing techniques.

The event also featured a marketplace for direct sales and a competition for innovative designs, with awards presented to brands such as Sole Inspir and January Wand. Dr.

Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, reaffirmed the commitment to supporting MSMEs in the leather industry, while Femi Olayebi emphasized the fair's purpose of building an ecosystem rather than just machinery. The Lagos Leather Fair, launched in 2017, aims to set a new path for African leather in the global market.