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Kenya’s leather exports grew by 28% in 2023 to Ksh9.3 billion after tanneries in Thika and Eldoret modernized processing lines. The Kenya Leather Development Council reports increased sales of finished hides to Italy, India, and Turkey. The shift from raw hide exports (banned in 2019) to value-added products has created 8,000 jobs. Support from the Export Processing Zones Authority and EU-funded grants enabled machinery upgrades. Challenges include inconsistent raw material supply and competition from Ethiopia. The sector aims to hit Ksh20 billion in exports by 2026 through branding and design innovation.