Hide demand for cows and bulls are strong, with firm sales reported and a generous volume of bids from buyers. Cattle slaughter is high, indicating a high supply of hides. Matching the supply is high demand for leather goods. However, the shortage of containers to move the material is creating a buildup of hide inventory for some sellers. 

Outstanding Export Sales  —  Through February 18

Tables 1 and 2 below show the total outstanding cured hide and wet blue export sales by selected countries through February 18. Through Week 7, the total outstanding sales are 4.467 million from 4.611 million the prior week. With the same period average weekly slaughter at 633,260 head, the cumulative outstanding…