India’s Atmanirbharta push is reshaping the tyre industry as companies leverage domestic mineral resources and advanced processing technologies to reduce import dependence and strengthen global competitiveness. Players such as 20 Microns Limited are capitalising on this shift by developing value-added fillers that enhance tyre performance while lowering costs and emissions.

As radialisation, sustainability targets and export ambitions converge, indigenous innovation is increasingly being positioned not merely as import substitution but as a strategic lever for global market integration and long-term industry transformation.

India has witnessed a sharp rise in cross-manufacturing capabilities across industries over the past decade. Once heavily dependent on imports, the country is gradually positioning itself as a manufacturing and export hub. This transition has been accelerated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for Atmanirbharta (self-reliance).

The domestic tyre ecosystem is also benefiting from this momentum, with companies that have established strengths in adjacent sectors now entering the tyre value chain. Gujarat-based 20 Microns, a speciality chemicals company operating primarily in industrial minerals and performance additives for sectors such as tyres, rubber, plastics, Paints, paper etc., has emerged as a supplier to leading Indian tyre manufacturers including CEAT.

Speaking exclusively to Tyre Trends, K K Mishra, President – Product and Business Development at 20 Microns, said, “The shift from bias-ply to radial tyres opened up opportunities for players like us to enter the tyre industry.”

Before entering the tyre segment, the company catered to multiple industries. “We supply products for 78 different applications, so tyres were not initially a focus area for us. Our entry into the segment was largely driven by customer demand,” Mishra explained.

The company’s first offering to the tyre industry was magnesium oxide. However, tyre manufacturers were already using the material in limited quantities relative to their overall raw material consumption. While some experimented with alternative fillers, these solutions often failed to deliver significant value.

Mishra pointed out that India had traditionally exported large volumes of raw minerals such as China clay, talc, mica and other industrial minerals but lacked advanced grinding and processing capabilities. As a result, European companies imported these raw materials, converted them into high-value speciality products and exported them back to India at significantly higher prices.

Recognising this gap, 20 Microns began developing nano and value-added mineral-based products domestically.

“We registered 20 Microns Nano Minerals Limited in 2004, but commercial operations started in 2012. We introduced products gradually. Our first major offering was an anti-blocking agent, which was largely imported by petrochemical Complex. These agents are used in packaging films to prevent layers from sticking together,” Mishra said.

To manufacture the product, the company installed a delamination process capable of producing platy particles. Advanced machinery was imported from Germany, and the delaminated talc products were initially supplied to Reliance Industries.

Following this success, the company realised the same technology could be applied to other minerals.

“We introduced kaolin, which also has a platy structure. Using the same delamination process, we produced nano-sized, high-aspect-ratio particles without fracturing them,” he noted.

This development became particularly relevant as the tyre industry transitioned from bias-ply to radial tyres.

“Radial tyres require improved air retention and reduced permeability. Our delaminated nano kaolin enhances these properties. We developed a product in which each particle is separated layer by layer rather than mechanically crushed,” Mishra explained.

The company recognised that global tyre manufacturers such as Bridgestone were importing similar materials from suppliers like Imerys, encouraging it to approach Indian tyre makers.

“Our first engagement was with CEAT, where the product delivered encouraging results. This was largely due to the superior quality of Indian China clay. Following CEAT’s success, we approached JK Tyre and Apollo Tyres. After two to three years of trials and validation, our product was approved and commercial supplies began,” Mishra said.

The company is now in discussions with Bridgestone, which currently imports these materials, and securing a position in its supply chain would mark a significant milestone.

MARKET OPPORTUNITY

India’s tyre industry is expanding rapidly. While the domestic market includes several major tyre manufacturers, the global supply side for speciality minerals remains concentrated among a few multinational players such as Imerys and Thiele. 20 Microns sees this as an opportunity to position itself as a global supplier.

“After establishing ourselves in India, we have started approaching international tyre manufacturers such as Pirelli and Iris Tyres, where approvals are currently underway. Globally, the transition towards radial and tubeless tyres is driving demand for such materials,” Mishra stated.

The company claims its products help reduce costs, provide reinforcement and partially replace carbon black while also supporting sustainability objectives.

Compared to carbon black or silica, the company’s product reportedly generates only around five percent of the associated carbon emissions, resulting in nearly 95 percent lower carbon output.

Additionally, the company operates its own mining facilities, where land restoration and environmental compliance form part of the extraction process.

“Around 15 percent of carbon black in tyres can be replaced with our product. Simultaneously, air impermeability improves by approximately 13–15 percent. Typical loading levels are around 15–20 percent. This means tyre manufacturers achieve carbon black replacement along with some reduction in rubber usage because improved air impermeability allows lower rubber consumption,” Mishra explained.

Beyond large tyre makers, the company is now targeting smaller manufacturers as well. Producers of two-wheeler and three-wheeler tyres have already begun adopting these solutions.

According to Mishra, several manufacturers have also expressed strong interest, with collaborative research and development activities underway to accelerate adoption.

However, he acknowledged that large-scale application in commercial vehicle tyres, where carbon black usage is significantly higher, will take time.

“Tyres are directly linked to safety, so manufacturers are understandably cautious. There is initial scepticism regarding whether replacing carbon black or introducing China clay-based fillers could affect mechanical performance. However, as successful implementation in passenger car radial tyres becomes more visible, adoption is expected to expand into commercial tyres as well,” he said. 

STRENGTHENING THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Exports currently contribute around 18 percent of the company’s total revenue, with supplies reaching 86 countries across Europe and the Americas. Mishra expects demand for delaminated products to grow three to four times over the next three to four years.

The company operates mine-site plants for kaolin, while its primary facility is located in Bhuj, Gujarat, where mining operations span 168 hectares. One mine is operational, while another is awaiting environmental clearance.

Its facilities employ advanced technologies, including cryogenic magnetic separation systems, to remove paramagnetic and ferromagnetic impurities. The kaolin slurry is processed through specialised systems to produce ultra-pure material, ensuring high-quality output.

“Indian kaolin deposits naturally offer high aspect ratios and superior platy structures. This enables two major applications. First, delaminated kaolin improves permeability and reinforcement in tyres. Second, when calcined at 1200–1,400 degrees Celsius, it can partially replace titanium dioxide, especially in paints and plastics. While this market is smaller than tyres, it still offers considerable potential,” Mishra noted.

According to the company, competition in this niche segment remains limited globally, with only a handful of manufacturers producing such specialised materials. While China competes aggressively in standard grades, the delaminated segment continues to remain relatively niche.

Sustainability has become a key focus area, as the products are derived from naturally occurring minerals that require mining and processing, yet still offer a significantly lower carbon footprint.

The company’s long-term objective is to increase the share of mineral-based fillers in tyre formulations.

“Three additional products are currently under development, including amorphous silica from diatomaceous earth and nano silicates as green tyre fillers. Delaminated talc, already supplied as an anti-blocking agent for petrochemical applications, is also being positioned by some European players as a partial carbon black substitute,” Mishra revealed.

The company recently invested INR 1 billion, fully funded through internal accruals, towards expansion. It currently operates nine plants in India along with facilities in Malaysia and Vietnam

Delaminated production capacity, currently at 400 tonnes and fully utilised by three tyre customers, is being expanded to 1,000 tonnes in response to strong global demand.

Capacity expansion is also underway in the petrochemical segment to cater to rising demand for anti-blocking agents. The company has acquired mineral assets and land in Anantapur for a talc and dolomite plant serving both tyre and non-tyre sectors, while calcium carbonate operations are being expanded in Makrana.

Expansion of the Malaysian subsidiary is expected to be funded through debt and private equity following mining asset acquisitions.

GLOBAL AMBITIONS AND FUTURE CHALLENGES

Export opportunities remain a key focus, particularly in Europe and other global markets.

“Our strategy is to first establish a strong domestic base and then expand globally through direct engagement with international manufacturers as well as distributor networks. The overseas expansion of Indian tyre companies is also creating opportunities, as approved supplier bases are being extended internationally,” Mishra said.

At the international level, concerns persist regarding the impact of replacing carbon black with China clay-based fillers on mechanical performance. However, awareness of similar global products already exists, and the company believes its 50–60 percent cost advantage could support gradual adoption despite lengthy validation cycles.

In the electric vehicle tyre segment, progress has so far been limited. Nevertheless, mineral-based fillers are recognised for offering improved flame-retardant properties, which could create future opportunities.

“Traditionally, adoption cycles in the tyre industry have been lengthy, typically taking around three years from laboratory testing to commercialisation. However, this approach is evolving following the Paris Agreement, with sustainability and circular economy goals driving greater openness towards green tyres. Artificial intelligence is also being leveraged to accelerate innovation, enhance testing and improve supply chain efficiency,” Mishra observed.

At the same time, challenges remain. The company also highlighted how readily mineral-based innovations can be replicated, leading to intensifying competition in the value-added minerals segment, where fillers are increasingly positioned as performance enhancers. While India continues to hold strength in China clay, talc, mica resources, and continues to export aggressively, imports of calcium carbonate from countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam and Egypt are also increasing.

Even as the Atmanirbharta wave drives innovation and global ambition, challenges related to validation cycles, performance concerns and rising competition persist. The ability to scale sustainably, protect innovation and build global trust will determine whether India’s mineral-based solutions evolve from cost-efficient alternatives into indispensable components of next-generation tyre manufacturing.

Goodyear is significantly broadening its award-winning UltraGrip Performance 3 tyre line, expanding the range to 344 stock-keeping units across Europe. The addition of 66 new SKUs marks a major milestone, as the company now offers the most extensive winter tyre coverage available from a single tread pattern. This strategic move simplifies the selection process for customers while extending proven performance to a wider array of vehicles.

The European automotive landscape now encompasses everything from compact city cars to high-performance electric vehicles and large SUVs. With this expansion, Goodyear is establishing a new benchmark for how comprehensively a singular winter tyre design can address this evolving market. By achieving this broad coverage through one pattern, the brand differentiates itself from competitors who often require multiple designs.

The newly introduced SKUs represent entirely new fitment opportunities, allowing Goodyear to serve vehicle models previously beyond its winter portfolio. Over 90 percent of the new additions are in sizes of 19 inches and above, with the entire range now spanning from 14 to 23 inches to accommodate Europe's changing vehicle parc.

This growth reinforces Goodyear's presence in both replacement and original equipment markets, featuring 59 new replacement SKUs and 7 OE fitments. The replacement segment now includes options for models like the Volvo EX60 and BMW X3 M50, as well as electric vehicles such as the Škoda Elroq RS. New OE partnerships have been secured with major manufacturers, including the BMW iX3, Porsche Cayenne Electric and Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ.

The tyre's reputation is validated by securing first place in the ADAC Winter Tire Test for both 2024 and 2025, with ADAC predicting a lifespan of 76,500 kilometres. Strong braking and handling on snow, wet and dry roads are achieved through Snow Protect and Wet Grip technologies. Designed for both electric and traditional vehicles, the tyre also features reduced rolling resistance and lower interior noise for a refined driving experience.

Ben Glesener, Senior Technology Director, Product Development Consumer EMEA Goodyear, said, “Today’s winter tyre market is more complex than ever, with more vehicle types, sizes and requirements than before. By offering 344 SKUs within a single winter tyre pattern, UltraGrip Performance 3 cuts through that complexity, making it easier to choose a tyre that delivers proven performance across a wide range of vehicles.”

Bridgestone has extended its market leadership in Thailand’s automotive sector by securing the ‘Marketeer No.1 Brand Thailand 2026’ award in the car tyre category, marking its 15th consecutive year of top consumer preference. The accolade, determined through a nationwide opinion poll, underscores the brand’s enduring resonance with Thai motorists. Yusuke Kosami, Division Manager of Business Planning at Bridgestone Sales (Thailand) Co., Ltd., formally accepted the trophy from Marketeer Magazine’s Editor and Founder, Permpol Popermhem, during a ceremony held at the Chadra Ballroom of Siam Kempinski Hotel in Bangkok.

The annual recognition programme, organised by Marketeer magazine, derives its findings from extensive research conducted by Marketing Move Co., Ltd., a specialised research and consultancy firm. This year’s survey assessed consumer sentiment across 123 distinct product categories, drawing on responses from over 6,500 participants located throughout the country. The comprehensive methodology was designed to pinpoint the most favoured brands among Thai consumers for the calendar year 2026.

With this latest honour, Bridgestone reaffirms its dominant position in Thailand’s competitive tyre industry, demonstrating consistent brand strength and consumer trust over more than a decade. The award not only highlights the company’s product quality but also reflects its successful long-term engagement with local customers, as validated by independent market research.

Kosami said, "Winning the Marketeer No.1 Brand Thailand Award for the 15th consecutive year is a reflection of the trust that Thai consumers have placed in Bridgestone over many years. We sincerely thank our customers, business partners, employees and all stakeholders for their continued trust and support. For nearly six decades, Bridgestone has been proud to grow together with Thailand. Guided by our mission of 'Serving Society with Superior Quality’, we will continue to deliver high-quality products and trusted services that meet the evolving needs of Thai consumers.

“Recently, we introduced the new BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT EVO, our latest premium sports tyre designed for both ultra-high-performance vehicles and electric vehicles (EV Ready). The launch reflects our commitment to providing advanced mobility solutions that combine safety, outstanding performance and driving confidence. Beyond our products, we will continue to enhance customer experiences through our nationwide COCKPIT service network, providing reliable and comprehensive automotive services across Thailand. This prestigious recognition inspires us to continue creating greater value for Thai consumers while contributing to a safer and more sustainable mobility society for future generations. Every journey begins with trust, and we look forward to continuing that journey together with Thai consumers for many years to come."

Michelin reported a resilient performance in the first half of 2026 despite unfavourable exchange rates and continued weakness in original equipment (OE) tyre markets, as strong demand for premium replacement tyres and lower raw material costs supported profitability. The French tyre maker also reaffirmed its full-year guidance, expressing confidence in its ability to navigate geopolitical uncertainty and competitive pressures.

Group revenue stood at EURO 12.69 billion, down 2.6 percent from a year earlier on a reported basis. However, at constant exchange rates, revenue grew 0.5 percent, with a stronger euro reducing reported sales by 3.1 percent.

Michelin's core operating performance improved during the period. Segment operating income stood at EURO 1.45 billion, with the operating margin improving to 11.4 percent  from 11.1 percent  a year earlier. Excluding currency movements and changes in business scope, operating income rose 7 percent , driven by premium product sales, better pricing and lower raw material costs.

Cash generation also strengthened significantly. Free cash flow before mergers and acquisitions improved to EURO 282 million, compared with a negative EURO 102 million in the first half of 2025, while gearing remained at 26 percent , reflecting a net debt position of EURO 4.55 billion.

Premium replacement demand offsets OE weakness

Michelin said sales of MICHELIN-branded replacement tyres increased 5 percent, supported by premium products and larger rim-size tyres. The company said higher sales of premium tyres and the acquisitions of Cooley Group and Flexitallic helped offset weaker OE demand and lower volumes in Tier-2 and Tier-3 brands.

Lower raw material costs also boosted profitability, offsetting higher manufacturing, logistics and tariff-related expenses. However, net income declined to EURO 766 million from EURO 840 million due mainly to a lower contribution from equity-accounted companies.

Consumer business leads performance

The Consumer segment remained Michelin's largest earnings contributor, reporting revenue of EURO 6.93 billion and an operating margin of 12.5 percent , supported by strong replacement demand, particularly for the MICHELIN Primacy 5 Energy and Pilot Sport 5 Energy ranges.

The Transportation division improved its operating margin to 5.9 percent  despite continued weakness in North America's truck OE market, while the Specialty segment maintained a 14.1 percent  operating margin as strong mining and aircraft tyre demand offset weakness in agricultural OE markets.

The Polymer Composite Solutions business delivered the fastest revenue growth, rising 14 percent  to EURO 728 million, largely due to acquisitions, although margins were affected by weaker demand for conveyor products.

Regional tyre markets remain mixed

Michelin said global passenger car and light truck OE demand declined 3 percent, while the replacement market grew 1 percent during the first half.

Europe

• OE demand declined 1 percent
• Replacement demand fell 2 percent

North and Central America

• OE demand declined 1 percent
• Replacement demand fell 4 percent

China

• OE demand contracted 7 percent
• Replacement demand increased 9 percent

The company attributed China's OE weakness to lower government subsidies for new vehicles, while Europe experienced slower economic activity and North America was affected by tariff-driven vehicle price increases and weaker EV incentives. In Europe, replacement demand was also influenced by dealers building inventories ahead of anti-dumping duties on Chinese tyre imports.

In truck tyres, the global market excluding China grew only 1 percent , with sharp regional differences:

• Europe: OE +4 percent , Replacement +9 percent
• North & Central America: OE -12 percent , Replacement -13 percent
• South America: OE -11 percent , Replacement +32 percent

Michelin said North American demand remained subdued as fleet operators delayed purchases, while South America's replacement market expanded rapidly due to increased low-cost tyre imports.

Acquisitions and innovation

Michelin completed three acquisitions during the first half, including Tex Tech Industries, following earlier purchases of Cooley Group and Flexitallic, strengthening its Polymer Composite Solutions portfolio in higher-value industrial markets.

The company also unveiled a universal AI-powered digital tyre twin capable of predicting tyre behaviour using real-time vehicle data and introduced new tyres containing up to 75 percent  renewable and recycled materials.

Workforce restructuring continues

Michelin plans to adapt its workforce in France through voluntary measures, with up to 1,500 positions potentially affected over the next three years.

In the United States, the company will progressively wind down production at its BFGoodrich plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, consolidating production at Fort Wayne, Indiana, resulting in approximately EURO 220 million in non-recurring charges during 2026.

Outlook

Michelin maintained its full-year guidance and continues to expect growth in segment operating income at constant exchange rates and business scope, while targeting more than EURO 1.6 billion in free cash flow before M&A during 2026.

Florent Menegaux, Michelin's Managing Chairman, said the company's improved sales momentum reflected continued innovation, stronger brand appeal and disciplined execution despite a challenging geopolitical and competitive environment.a

Tegeta Green Planet contributed to a recent youth initiative in Bakuriani by partnering with the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs for its annual summer camp. The collaboration featured a targeted environmental workshop designed to instil stronger ecological values and sustainable habits among the student participants.

A central figure in the proceedings was Tamar Dolidze, Head of the Occupational Safety and Environmental Protection Department at Tegeta Holding. Her address to the attendees covered the mounting pressures of climate change, the finite nature of key resources and the collective duty of citizens to mitigate environmental harm.

Beyond the lecture, the organisation’s team delved into forward-thinking approaches to waste reduction, the operational logic of circular economic models and the regulatory significance of producer responsibility schemes. An open forum followed, enabling the young audience to pose questions and exchange viewpoints, while a subsequent interactive contest added a lighter touch and was accompanied by small prizes.

Long-term engagement with educational spheres remains a cornerstone of Tegeta Green Planet’s outreach, encompassing schools, universities, and seasonal camps. The enterprise views such programmes as vital for bridging theoretical instruction with real-world behavioural change, reinforcing that environmental literacy and enthusiastic youth involvement are fundamental drivers of a more resilient and resource-conscious future.