On this page
Global leatherette production in 2026 is estimated at approximately 8-9 million tonnes, reflecting its widespread use as a cost-efficient and uniform alternative to natural leather. Production growth is supported by automotive interior demand, expanding furniture manufacturing and rising preference for animal-free surface materials.
Production capacity is concentrated in Asia Pacific, supported by large-scale PVC and PU coating infrastructure, integrated textile bases and export-oriented manufacturing hubs. Buyers prioritise surface consistency, durability and compliance with interior material standards.
PVC-based leatherette dominates volume usage due to cost efficiency, while PU and microfiber variants serve higher-performance and appearance-driven applications.
Leatherette production relies on precise coating thickness, controlled curing and embossing accuracy, all of which determine abrasion resistance, flexibility and visual quality.
Automotive and furniture applications account for the largest share of consumption due to volume consistency and repeat production cycles.
Asia Pacific leads global leatherette production due to integrated PVC and PU supply chains and large-scale coating capacity.
Europe focuses on higher-specification and automotive-grade leatherette.
North America supports domestic automotive and furniture demand with selective capacity.
Latin America maintains regional supply for furniture and footwear uses.
The leatherette supply chain includes polymer resin sourcing, plasticiser and additive blending, textile backing, coating, curing and distribution. Key cost drivers include PVC or PU resin prices, energy use, additives and logistics.
The ecosystem includes polymer producers, coating specialists, textile suppliers, automotive OEMs, furniture manufacturers and fashion brands. Strategic priorities include low-emission formulations, recycled content integration and compliance with interior material standards.
Global leatherette production in 2026 is estimated at approximately 8-9 million tonnes, driven primarily by automotive interiors, furniture upholstery and footwear applications.
Leatherette is increasingly used because it offers cost consistency, uniform quality, easier processing and animal-free sourcing, making it suitable for large-scale manufacturing.
PVC leatherette offers higher durability and cost efficiency, while PU leatherette provides better softness, breathability and premium appearance for fashion and interior uses.
Automotive interiors and furniture upholstery consume the largest volumes due to high surface area requirements and repeat production cycles.
Capacity expansion is limited by coating line investment, energy intensity, regulatory compliance requirements and downstream demand alignment.
Explore Textiles, Fabrics, Yarn & Fibres Insights
View Reports
Leatherette Global Production Capacity and Growth Outlook
Thank you!
You will receive an email from our Business Development Manager. Please be sure to check your SPAM/JUNK folder too.
