NEWS IN BRIEF: AFRICA LATEST

AFRICA DECEMBER 2025 UPDATE

Our RLSD campaign Africa Talent Showcase took place in Lusaka the week of November 24, 2025, as the continent’s influence on global style continues to grow.When Nike launched the Air Max RK61 sneaker in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire—marking the brand's first-ever African debut before a global release—it signaled more than a fashion moment. The collaboration with Paris-based collective Air Afrique highlighted Africa's place in luxury production, particularly in leather goods, where heritage craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Designers at the forefront of this include Tia Adeola (a Nigerian-born, New York-based designer) and Deola Sagoe. 

US Hides Exports to Africa Grow Despite Logistics Strains 

Africa might still be a small export market for the US, but the country’s tanneries increased their reliance on US hides in 2024–2025. Morocco, South Africa and Tunisia remain the largest buyers, sourcing US wet-salted and heavy native steer hides for footwear, automotive and premium leather goods. Egypt, Nigeria and Ghana continue to expand purchases of both wet-blue and salted hides. Along with compliance with US environmental and veterinary standards, African producers favor US material for its consistent grading, strong traceability and cleaner hides from cold-climate cattle. But though the US is a provider of high-quality raw materials for the continent’s growing leather sector, the trade is facing increasing pressures. Reports suggest igher freight costs, fluctuating US hide prices and tighter African phytosanitary rules—introduced after global livestock disease concerns—have slowed some shipments, especially to West Africa. While this is a strain logistically, African tanneries continue to seek reliable suppliers to support export growth.