COVID-19 outbreaks have slowed operations for many players in the US hide market this week. A footwear tanner reported COVID-19 in Asia has so far disrupted life, transports, leather production and retail spending. Because of the impact that the spread of the virus has had on business, many tanneries in Southern China have already begun to close for Lunar New Year. An additional concern for the market is the close proximity the cases in China are to the Hebei province. The sector of the hide market that is the busiest is the upholstery business, which mainly operates out of the ports in Hebei. The risk the virus could impact operations at these ports is a major concern for the hide market. 

Apparel Production Slowed Due to COVID-19 Outbreaks 

Government-imposed lockdowns due to COVID-19 outbreaks have slowed apparel production in several…