Top 10 Companies in the Synthetic Leather Industry (2026): Market Leaders Pioneering Sustainable Materials

In Business Insights
January 30, 2026


The Global Synthetic Leather Market was valued at USD 5.73 Billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 6.13 Billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 1.2% during the forecast period (2025–2032). This growth is being driven by increasing demand from the automotive and footwear industries, rising consumer preference for cruelty-free alternatives, and the accelerating adoption of eco-friendly PU and bio-based synthetic leather solutions across fashion, furniture, and automotive sectors.

As the materials industry transforms toward sustainable production and ethical sourcing, the spotlight is on the key manufacturers who are driving innovation, performance, and greener material pathways. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Synthetic Leather Industry—a mix of chemical giants, specialized producers, and sustainability pioneers shaping the future of global synthetic leather.


🔟 1. Kuraray Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Clarino® microfiber synthetic leather, ECO系列的环保人造革

Kuraray is a global leader in high-performance synthetic leather, renowned for its Clarino® brand which is widely used in premium footwear, sports goods, and automotive interiors. The company’s proprietary microfiber technology produces materials with exceptional durability, breathability, and a realistic leather-like feel.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of bio-based polymers for synthetic leather production

  • Investment in water-based PU technologies to reduce VOC emissions

  • Commitment to carbon neutrality across operations by 2050

Download FREE Sample Report: Synthetic Leather Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. Toray Industries, Inc.

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Ultrasonic® synthetic leather, Ecolojet® water-based PU

Toray Industries is a major player in advanced materials, with its synthetic leather division serving global automotive OEMs and luxury brands. The company’s Ultrasonic® brand is known for its high abrasion resistance and is extensively used in car seats and interior trims.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Pioneering water-based polyurethane production processes

  • Development of recycled-content synthetic leather products


8️⃣ 3. Teijin Limited

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Solotex® eco-leather, PVC-free alternatives

Teijin Limited has established itself as an innovator in eco-friendly synthetic leather, focusing on PVC-free solutions and sustainable production methods. The company’s materials are favored by European automotive manufacturers and high-end fashion labels for their environmental credentials.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • 100% PVC-free synthetic leather portfolio

  • Closed-loop recycling systems for production waste


7️⃣ 4. Bayer AG (Covestro)

Headquarters: Leverkusen, Germany
Key Offering: Impranil® eco polyurethane dispersions

While Bayer’s materials science operations now operate as Covestro, the company remains a foundational force in synthetic leather through its innovative polyurethane chemistries. Bayer/Covestro supplies key raw materials to synthetic leather manufacturers worldwide, driving the shift toward ecological production.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Bio-based polyol technologies reducing carbon footprint by up to 40%

  • Partnerships with tanneries and manufacturers for sustainable supply chains


6️⃣ 5. Asahi Kasei Corporation

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Lamous® synthetic suede, PVC alternatives

Asahi Kasei is renowned for its Lamous® synthetic suede, which replicates the luxurious feel of genuine suede while offering superior durability and stain resistance. The company’s materials are extensively used in automotive interiors, furniture, and fashion accessories.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of solvent-free manufacturing processes

  • Integration of recycled polyester in synthetic leather substrates


5️⃣ 6. Shandong Friendship

Headquarters: Weifang, China
Key Offering: PVC synthetic leather, PU-coated fabrics

As one of China’s largest synthetic leather manufacturers, Shandong Friendship dominates the cost-sensitive segments of the market. The company supplies massive volumes to domestic furniture, footwear, and bag manufacturers, leveraging China’s comprehensive supply chain advantages.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Transition toward phthalate-free plasticizers in PVC production

  • Investment in wastewater treatment and emission control systems

Download FREE Sample Report: Synthetic Leather Market – View in Detailed Research Report


4️⃣ 7. San Fang Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Taipei, Taiwan
Key Offering: VIVALO® synthetic leather, microfiber PU

San Fang Chemical specializes in high-value microfiber synthetic leather used in premium sports shoes, luxury handbags, and automotive applications. The company’s VIVALO® brand competes directly with genuine leather in terms of quality and aesthetics.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of water-based polyurethane formulations

  • Implementation of energy-efficient drying and coating technologies


3️⃣ 8. Wangkang Group

Headquarters: Wenzhou, China
Key Offering: PVC artificial leather, PU synthetic leather

Wangkang Group is a major Chinese manufacturer with extensive production capacity for both PVC and PU synthetic leather. The company serves diverse applications from automotive interiors to daily-use bags and accessories, with a strong focus on the domestic market.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Adoption of cleaner production techniques to meet environmental standards

  • Research into biodegradable synthetic leather alternatives


2️⃣ 9. Kolon Industries, Inc.

Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea
Key Offering: Hienz® synthetic leather, automotive interior materials

Kolon Industries is a key supplier to the global automotive industry, providing synthetic leather for seats, dashboards, and door panels. The company’s Hienz® brand is known for its excellent wear resistance and UV stability, meeting rigorous automotive standards.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Development of bio-based synthetic leather for automotive applications

  • Partnerships with global automakers for sustainable interior solutions


1️⃣ 10. Huafeng Group

Headquarters: Wenzhou, China
Key Offering: PU synthetic leather, microfiber materials

Huafeng Group has emerged as a significant player in the mid-range synthetic leather market, supplying materials for footwear, furniture, and automotive applications. The company has been investing in upgraded production facilities to improve product quality and environmental performance.

Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Implementation of green manufacturing practices

  • Development of eco-friendly product lines for international markets

Get Full Report Here: Synthetic Leather Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Synthetic Leather Is Sustainable and High-Performance

The synthetic leather market is undergoing a dynamic shift. While traditional PVC-based materials still dominate in volume, the industry is investing significantly in eco-friendly alternatives, advanced manufacturing technologies, and circular economy models.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Rapid adoption of bio-based and water-based PU technologies in North America and Europe

  • Regulatory push for phthalate-free and low-VOC materials by 2030

  • Digitalization of supply chains and smart manufacturing processes

  • Brand-manufacturer alliances for sustainable material development

Get Full Report Here: Synthetic Leather Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only supplying global industries—they’re pioneering the sustainable transformation of material manufacturing.