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Ramesh Kumar Juneja Chairman CLE, boosting India’s leather exports. Learn key facts, history, and exam-relevant insights for SSC, Banking, and UPSC preparation.

Ramesh Kumar Juneja Takes Charge as Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports

Overview: New Leadership at CLE

Ramesh Kumar Juneja has recently assumed the position of Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), marking a significant leadership change within one of India’s key export promotion bodies. This appointment took place during the 184th meeting of the Committee of Administration of CLE held in Chennai on 6 January 2026. The Council for Leather Exports is an apex body tasked with promoting and facilitating exports of leather, footwear, and leather products globally.

Who is Ramesh Kumar Juneja?

Ramesh Kumar Juneja is a seasoned industrialist with over four decades of experience in the leather industry. Before being appointed Chairman, he served as the Vice-Chairman of CLE and was a board member for more than 15 years. He has also held the position of Regional Chairman of the Eastern Region of CLE since 2014. His deep involvement in the leather sector and entrepreneurial background have made him a well-recognized figure within both national and international trade circles.

Role and Responsibilities as Chairman

As the new Chairman, Juneja will lead CLE’s strategic efforts to enhance India’s leather export footprint globally. His responsibilities include working with exporters, policymakers, and international partners to expand market access and improve India’s share in global leather trade. CLE plays a vital role in policy guidance, market research, export support, and industry representation, and the Chairman’s role involves steering these efforts amid global trade challenges and opportunities.

Significance of the Leather Sector in India

The leather industry is an important contributor to India’s manufacturing and export economy. It provides employment to millions and supports numerous MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) across the country. The sector exports finished leather, footwear, leather goods, and accessories to global markets including the EU, US, and others. Leadership at CLE is therefore crucial in guiding export strategies, particularly in a competitive global environment.

Strategic Focus Areas Under New Leadership

Under Ramesh Kumar Juneja’s leadership, CLE is expected to prioritize initiatives such as:

Market diversification to reduce dependence on traditional markets.
Enhancing value-added exports like finished leather goods.
Strengthening trade linkages with major markets like the European Union and the United States.
Supporting sustainability and innovation in the leather value chain.
These areas are critical for maintaining and improving India’s export performance in the coming years.

Industry and International Collaborations

Apart from his role at CLE, Juneja also serves as Vice-Chairman of the Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce, where he fosters investments and collaborations between India and Italy across sectors including leather, infrastructure, and railways. His international experience and network are expected to boost India’s leather export initiatives and help secure trade partnerships that are strategically significant for long-term growth.

Why This News Is Important for Government Exam Aspirants

Understanding Export Promotion Councils

Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), such as the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), are significant institutions in India’s foreign trade ecosystem. Sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, these bodies help Indian industries enhance their export competitiveness by providing market information, policy recommendations, trade support, and overseas representation. Knowledge of EPCs is often tested in economy and trade sections of competitive exams like UPSC, SSC CGL, and banking exams.

Relevance to Economy & Trade Syllabus

This news highlights how leadership changes in key export institutions can affect strategic export planning and sector performance. The leather industry contributes to India’s employment, foreign exchange earnings, and MSME growth. Understanding the role of such institutions and their leadership is critical for questions related to international trade, export policies, and sectoral growth in competitive exams.

Current Affairs and Business Awareness

Appointments at the top level in major trade bodies are part of the appointment and economic news sections in current affairs. Aspirants preparing for Banking Awareness, General Awareness, and Economy sections should be aware of such developments, especially when they relate to industries contributing to national growth.

Historical Context: Council for Leather Exports

Establishment and Purpose

The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) was established in 1984 as an export promotion council under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. Its primary objective is to support and boost India’s leather and leather goods exports by acting as a bridge between Indian manufacturers and global buyers.

Role in India’s Trade Framework

Over the decades, CLE has played a crucial role in advocating for policies that enhance export competitiveness, facilitate trade negotiations, and address challenges faced by the leather sector such as sustainability norms and quality standards. CLE’s work includes organising trade fairs, delegations, sector research, and export assistance services.

Leadership Evolution

Leadership at CLE rotates periodically, with experienced industry leaders usually selected as Chairman. Prior to Ramesh Kumar Juneja, R K Jalan was the Chairman. Leaders of CLE often come from within the industry, bringing firsthand insights into global market dynamics and export strategies.

Exports and Global Positioning

India’s leather industry, supported by CLE, has historically been one of the largest producers of leather and leather products worldwide, contributing significantly to export earnings and job creation. The Council’s role has included expanding presence in major import markets and improving product standards to meet global demand.

Key Takeaways from Ramesh Kumar Juneja Takes Charge as Chairman of CLE

S. No.	Key Takeaway
1	Ramesh Kumar Juneja assumed charge as Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports on 6 January 2026 in Chennai.
2	CLE is an export promotion council under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry promoting leather and footwear exports.
3	Juneja has over 40 years of experience and served as CLE Vice-Chairman and Regional Chairman (Eastern Region).
4	The Chairman’s role involves boosting India’s leather exports and global market engagement.
5	His international collaborations include roles in the Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce to enhance trade ties.

Ramesh Kumar Juneja Chairman CLE

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is Ramesh Kumar Juneja?

Ramesh Kumar Juneja is a seasoned industrialist with over 40 years of experience in the leather industry. He recently took charge as Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports (CLE).

2. What is the Council for Leather Exports (CLE)?

CLE is an export promotion council under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, India. It focuses on promoting leather, footwear, and leather goods exports globally and supporting Indian manufacturers.

3. When did Ramesh Kumar Juneja assume office as CLE Chairman?

He assumed office on 6 January 2026 during the 184th meeting of CLE’s Committee of Administration held in Chennai.

4. What are the main responsibilities of the CLE Chairman?

The Chairman is responsible for:

Expanding India’s leather export markets
Policy advocacy for leather sector growth
Supporting MSMEs and exporters
International trade collaboration and networking

5. Why is CLE important for India’s economy?

The leather sector provides employment to millions, supports MSMEs, contributes significantly to foreign exchange earnings, and plays a vital role in India’s export competitiveness.