Last week, a meeting was held for organizations collaborating on the EU-funded “Project on Strengthening the Capacity of Bio-Leather and Bio-Leather Product Production Cluster of Plant Tanned Yak Skin and Leather Products in Mongolia”. This initiative, funded through the SWITCH-Asia grant program, aims to enhance Mongolia’s bio-leather sector by developing sustainable and eco-friendly tanning processes for yak leather, ultimately boosting the industry’s global competitiveness.

At the meeting, attendees discussed progress, shared insights on ongoing activities, and outlined future actions for the project, which is set to continue until 2025. The project’s goals include introducing new bio-tanned yak leather products to the market, improving production and finishing processes, and enhancing the technical skills of tannery personnel. With these advancements, Mongolia’s leather industry is positioned to expand its sustainable practices and market presence.

The meeting was attended by key figures including Senior Project Manager Alexia Zaglara and Project Manager Ian Leach. 

An essential component of the project involved a five-day training session on the International Leather Working Group Standard and Value in the Supply Chain of Vegetable Tanned Yak Leather Products, led by Spanish expert Borja Mateu. This training emphasized best practices for sustainability and quality in leather production, concluding with the presentation of certificates to participants, marking their successful completion of the program.

By fostering collaboration and enhancing expertise in bio-leather production, this project aims to elevate Mongolia’s leather industry to meet international standards, enabling sustainable growth and access to new markets.