Raw materials


were as follows: 365,000 cattle weighing less than 600lbs, 395,000 between 600-699lbs, 505,000 between 700-799lbs, 382,000 between 800-899lbs, 105,000 between 900-999lbs, and 70,000 weighing 1,000lbs or more. In January, marketings of fed cattle reached 1.87 million, marking a 1% increase over the previous year. Other disappearance for the month totalled 60,000 head, a 26% decrease compared to 2024. Despite these changes in cattle numbers, the decline in US cattle on feed has not yet led to a significant impact on the supply of rawhides.


Hide market


The hide market has been holding steady, but mixed signals indicate a cautious outlook for the upcoming period. Steer prices have remained stable, while sales activity has shown a slow pace, particularly in certain categories. Although rawhide sales have seen positive growth, fuelled by ongoing international demand, particularly from China, wet blue sales have experienced significant declines. This shift in demand is a sign of hesitation from buyers as they navigate uncertain global conditions. Despite the weaker performance in wet blue sales, shipments have improved, suggesting that logistical challenges may be easing, allowing inventory to move at a more consistent pace. On the global front, geopolitical factors have weighed heavily on market expectations. Potential new tariffs, particularly those from the US and China, have created uncertainty, affecting trade and adding pressure to the hide market. Other factors, such as the record- breaking exports from Mexico, a surge in South Korean ship engine sales to China, and rising oil trade restrictions with Russia, all contribute to the complex landscape of international trade. Meanwhile, Paris Fashion Week trends highlighted the continued demand for leather goods, particularly in high-end fashion, reinforcing the long-term value of premium hides. Looking ahead, the market is expected to remain cautiously steady. Steer prices are likely to hold firm, but there are concerns over the pressure on cow prices. Rawhide sales may continue to show positive momentum, supported by steady demand, although the recovery of wet blue sales remains uncertain. Supply constraints, due to packers being well covered into March, could provide some support for pricing in the short term. However, geopolitical issues, including the potential for new US trade policies and the Chinese New Year-related slowdown, could introduce some volatility. While the market has shown resilience with stronger rawhide sales and rising shipments, the outlook is tempered by trade and geopolitical risks. Participants are closely monitoring developments in key markets, particularly the impact of new tariffs and the effects of China’s trade policies. As the market adjusts, prices are expected to remain steady but with potential for minor fluctuations. Despite the challenges, there are reasons for cautious optimism. ●


Leather International / www.leathermag.com


Colorado steers 60 –


50 – 40 – 30 – 20 – 10 – 0


1020304050 Weeks


Dairy cows 45 –


35 –


2022 2023 2024 2025


25 –


2022 2023 2024 2025


15 –


5 – 0


1020304050 Weeks


Heavy native heifers 50 –


40 –


2022 2023 2024 2025


30 –


20 –


10 – 0


1020304050 Weeks


Heavy native cows 40 –


30 –


2022 2023 2024 2025


20 –


10 –


0 – 0


1020304050 Weeks


21


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