BANGKOK — The Thai Tanning Industry Association has endorsed the government’s approval of water monitor farming after luxury brands expressed interest in exotic leather for handbags and shoes, potentially driving exports beyond 20 billion baht ($620 million).
Suwatchai Wongcharoensin, President of the Thai Tanning Industry Association, revealed that following the Wildlife Conservation Committee’s decision to add water monitors to the breeding list, licensed operators can now breed the animals commercially.
Breeding stock must be purchased from the Department of National Parks at 500 baht ($15.5) per animal, opening commercial opportunities while helping control the water monitor population, whose current numbers in Thailand remain unknown.
Luxury Market Demand Drives Policy Support
Suwatchai expressed support for the commercial breeding policy, viewing it as value creation for farmers and Thailand’s leather industry. He noted that luxury brands like Hermès have used monitor lizard leather in their Birkin bags, with prices reaching millions of baht. The distinctive leather, resembling a hybrid of crocodile and snake skin, appeals to global luxury fashion brands for handbags and shoes.
“This policy expands opportunities for exotic leather. If Thailand proceeds with water monitor leather exports and market demand exists, breeding operations won’t be difficult. Currently, the Philippines is the only country globally exporting water monitors, but strict CITES compliance is essential for customer confidence,” he said.
Industry Faces Trump Tariff Challenges
Thailand’s leather industry reached nearly 20 billion baht ($620 million) in 2024 value. However, 2025 has seen purchasing orders stagnate due to Trump tariff uncertainties, with buyers awaiting clarity on rates. The industry has acknowledged a 40% production decline due to reduced global purchasing power.
With Trump tariffs on Thailand now confirmed at 19%, orders are expected to resume, though below previous expectations.
Thai leather exports in 2024 totaled approximately 12 billion baht ($370 million), with exotic leather—including reptile skins, stingray leather, and crocodile leather—comprising 25-30% of total exports, valued at around 4 billion baht ($124 million). Major export markets include Europe, China, and Japan.
Water monitor leather commands 4,200-14,000 baht ($130-430) per square meter, while crocodile leather ranges from 4,200-139,500 baht ($130-4,320) per square meter, depending on patterns and species.
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