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TÜV SÜD supports companies to tackle safety issues related to Restricted Substances

Chennai, India – The Indian Leather industry has become increasingly cautious about the presence of the Restricted Substances in leather and footwear products. However, there have been cases of negligence amongst exporters with respect to this crucial aspect. While a section of exporters get a small percentage of batches of the total lot to be exported tested for eco parameters, the negligence bears heavily on the untested products. Rejections and circulation of unsafe leather and footwear in the markets are offshoots of such negligence resulting in tarnished business and brand equity of the exporter. TÜV SÜD has played a key role in helping companies in the leather industry understand the value of comprehensive eco testing for Restricted Substances. TÜV SÜD South Asia will be explaining best safety practices and the existing requirements for comprehensive testing and certification solutions in the leather and footwear industry, at the India International Leather Fair from January 31 to February 3, 2010.

"The risks involved in leather and footwear can be quite damaging for the health of a customer and the business of a company. The presence of restricted substances cannot be neglected in any batch of export, immaterial of the size of the aggregate batches for export. We have seen nearly 25-30% of lots being rejected annually due to non-compliance to testing standards. In some cases an entire order worth over USD 1 million has been rejected by a buyer, leaving the exporter to bear all the costs – all this because not all lots in the consignment were tested for all quality and eco parameters,” says Mr. Vinodh Kumar, Manager – Leather testing, TÜV SÜD South Asia. "This may be an indication that while exporters understand the importance of quality; the magnitude of having a comprehensive test is yet to be understood," adds Mr. Sathishkumar, National Sales Manager – Softlines Testing, TÜV SÜD South Asia.

The Indian leather industry is targeting over USD 5 billion exports by end of 20101. In course of meeting targets, leather and footwear exporters encounter cost escalation in the form of testing and certification requirements, resulting in cases of negligence. However, the scenario is improving with training that is being imparted on quality and safety aspects in leather and footwear. TÜV SÜD South Asia has been helping exporters in various leather clusters in India realize the existing norms and compliance standards through regular trainings. TÜV SÜD experts will also be providing information on leather and footwear testing, inspection and the certification process as well as a broad range of services at the IILF – India International Leather Fair, Chennai from January 31st to February 3rd, 2010 (Chennai Trade Centre, Booth B36, Hall 1-B).