In 2024, Italian leather products exports to the United States were worth more than €1.2 billion. Despite the uncertainty caused by customs taxes, the sector appears to be holding up, with a 0.7% growth in value in Q1 2025. However, 69% of Italian exporters anticipate severe consequences, and 47% are actively looking into alternate markets. The world of leather goods is meeting in Milan these days (until September 9), where Mipel is taking place: the event, now in its 128th edition, has exceptionally moved up its dates, breaking the traditional overlap with other fashion trade shows (Milano Fashion&Jewels, Lineapelle, and TheOne Milano). This exceptional decision was forced by exposition center upgrades in preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The event, which is the international reference point for the leather goods and fashion accessories sector, is promoted and organized by Assopellettieri with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Italian Trade Agency, and with the patronage of the City of Milan. Over 200 brands, including established names and emerging brands, will present their spring-summer 2026 collections, with an equal split of Italian and international brands. This is also an important event for understanding national brands' export strategy (at the product level) to the rest of the world, particularly the United States, which has long been a vital market for the sector. With a revenue of more than €12 billion in 2024 and one of Europe's strongest trade balances (albeit somewhat lower than the previous year, -9%), Italian leather goods are a critical cornerstone of Made in Italy. Italy is presently the world's second largest exporter behind China, thanks to a vast, competitive, and very distinctive production model: with 4,532 active enterprises and nearly 49,000 people, Italy is Europe's main manufacturer, accounting for 47% of the continent's sales.