Major agreement for Abicalçados, Assintecal and CICB

The missing piece enabling the ‘Origem Sustentável’ (Sustainable Origin) programme to cover the entire footwear supply chain was announced on 30 September at the ‘Conexão Origem Sustentável’ event in Taquara, Rio Grande do Sul. From now on, the Brazilian Tanning Industry Centre (CICB), the body representing the country’s tanning sector, will take part in the world’s only ESG certification programme dedicated exclusively to companies in the footwear supply chain. Speaking at the event, CICB’s Chief Executive, José Fernando Bello, emphasised that the inclusion of tanneries will strengthen both the tanning sector and the certification programme itself.

“We will further enhance the Brazilian tanning industry by adopting best production practices and, at the same time, increasing the use of leather in products manufactured in the country, both for the domestic market and for export,” he said. The Brazilian tanning industry is currently one of the top three producers in the world. Tanneries will be able to obtain ‘Origem Sustentável’ certification from 2027 onwards, as part of a new version of the programme currently being developed jointly by CICB, Abicalçados (Brazilian Footwear Industry Association) and Assintecal (Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Manufactured Goods).

According to Haroldo Ferreira, Chief Executive of Abicalçados, the initiative boosts the sector’s competitiveness both nationally and, crucially, internationally. “Sustainability – not just in the finished product but throughout the entire production process – is increasingly valued by younger generations. CICB’s participation in ‘Origem Sustentável’ is not just about reinforcing sustainable practices; it also consolidates a position shared by the entire supply chain, which enhances the competitiveness of the sector as a whole, particularly in the face of competition from Asia,” he said.