New Delhi, Aug. 8 -- Indian leather exporters are facing serious challenges after the United States imposed steep tariffs on Indian goods, hitting an industry that depends on exports for 80 per cent of its business.

Exporters have warned of heavy financial losses, cancelled orders and a likely shift of business to competing nations such as Bangladesh, Vietnam and Pakistan.

Leather exporter Umakant Dubey said the industry, which is heavily dependent on international markets, could lose major orders to rival countries.

"It will cause a huge loss to the leather industry. We will not be able to export goods and products. There is only 20% consumption of leather products in India; the rest of the business is completely international. Now, t...