Dynamics and Driving Forces of Hides and Skins Production and Its Quality Maintenance: The Case in Ethiopia: A Systematic Reviewof Literature

Abstract

Hides and skins represent a significant economic sub-sector within Ethiopia’s agrarian economy, contributing to export earnings and livelihoods. However, the sector is characterized by a paradox of substantial raw material potential coupled with persistent challenges in quality and value realization. This paper synthesizes existing literature to critically review the dynamics and multifactorial driving forces influencing the production and quality maintenance of hides and skins in Ethiopia. It examines the upstream production constraints, including animal husbandry practices, seasonal variations, disease prevalence (e.g., ectoparasites), and pre-slaughter handling. The review further analyzes the post-slaughter factors, such as flaying techniques, preservation methods, storage, and transportation logistics, which critically determine final product quality and marketability.

The driving forces are explored across institutional, economic, and technical dimensions, encompassing the role of market systems, pricing mechanisms, extension services, and regulatory frameworks. The synthesis reveals that the degradation of hide and skin quality is a systemic issue, stemming from a complex interplay of technical gaps, economic disincentives along the supply chain, and weak coordination among stakeholders. The paper concludes by identifying key knowledge gaps and underscoring the need for integrated interventions that address technical improvements, strengthen market linkages, and enhance policy enforcement to harness the sector’s full potential and competitiveness in the global market.