Between the 21st and 28th of October 2023, a Study Visit to Greece was organised as part of the "Capacity Building for Mongolian Vegetable Tanned Yak Leather on Bio-leather and Bio-leather Products" (SYL Project). This project, funded by the EU under the SWITCH-Asia Grants Programme, aims to address challenges faced by the members of the Vegetable Tanned Yak Leather Cluster in Mongolia, including outdated leather processing technology, products not meeting international quality standards, inadequate infrastructure for waste treatment, and a shortage of skilled human resources.
Study visits play an important role in fostering knowledge exchange and sharing best practices among businesses and practitioners, particularly in the context of countries like Greece and Mongolia, where distinct economic and cultural landscapes exist. These visits provide a unique opportunity for professionals to gain first hand exposure to different business environments and industry practices, enhancing not only practitioners’ skills but also strengthening collaborative networks across countries.
The primary objective of the study visit was to enhance the capacities and knowledge of participants regarding international market trading requirements, eco-labelling, and customer demands. The visit included 10 representatives from the Mongolian Vegetable Tanned Yak Leather Cluster, two representatives from the Mongolian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, two representatives from the Mongolian Association of Leather Industry (MALI), and one representative from Brand Gutal.
Visits to various companies and stakeholders were organised, including to:
- The Hellenic Association of Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters (ELSEVIE)
- ROTA SA, the largest exhibition organization in Greece
- Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Greek leather shoes company "BOXER FIDAS"
- Vasiliadis Tannery, the largest tannery in Greece
- Agricultural University of Athens
- Greek leather shoes company "ROBINSON Shoes"
The successful completion of the study tour brought significant results and benefits for all participating partners. It fostered enhanced collaboration and networking opportunities, strengthening relationships among project partners. Participants also actively shared knowledge and exchanged best practices, facilitating the transfer of valuable insights and approaches.
The insights gained during the tour enabled the identification of potential challenges and opportunities existing both in Mongolia and in Greece, paving the way for the development of innovative strategies and approaches. The visit also provided participants with diverse perspectives and experiences, deepening their understanding of the project's goals and methodologies.
Photo credits © SWITCH-Asia SYL Project
