Morocco and Benin to step up cooperation in leather industries

Morocco and Benin set up lately a program for the reinforcement of their cooperation ties in the field of leather processing, shoe making and related sectors.

The program, elaborated within the frame of south-south cooperation, provides for the exchange of expertise, the launching of joint projects and the training of Beninese craftsmen in various leather industries.

Morocco counts about 270 leather processing units employing 15,000 persons. In 1997, they produced about $300 million worth of shoes that were exported mostly to European union countries.

Shoe-making plays an important role in Morocco's leather industry. Two Moroccan leather training institutes have contributed to the development of leather industry and improvement of the quality of the Moroccan leather produce that is highly appreciated worldwide.