The FAO Intergovernmental Sub-Group on Hides and Skins represents a forum for intergovernmental consultation and exchange on trends in production, consumption, trade and prices of hides and skins, including regular appraisal of the global market situation and short term outlook. The Sub-Group, under FAO auspices, considers changes in national policies and examines their international effects as pertaining to current and prospective markets.

Increasingly, technical side events are organized in conjunction with the Sub-Group to facilitate a dialogue between FAO delegates, international policy makers, and the private sector. Linkages with other international organizations and commodity bodies are encouraged.

Membership in the Sub-Group is open to all Member Nations and Associate Members of FAO, including Observers from international organizations and institutions. Nearly all importing and exporting countries of hides and skins are members of the Sub-Group.