The downward revision in the world supply outlook for 2020 is largely due to the scaling down of the outlook for Thailand and India, according to ANRPC. The outlook on the production of NR in Thailand has been scaled down by 332,000 tonnes to 4.478 million tonnes. The country’s revised outlook for 2020 represents a 7.7% decline from the previous year as against a 0.9% anticipated fall reported a month ago.

The harvesting and primary processing of rubber in Thailand are severely affected by acute shortage of labourers. The migrant labourers from neighbouring countries and those from other provinces within the country find it difficult to reach back and resume the various farm management activities including tapping and primary processing. Aggravating the situation, tropical storm ‘Noul’ damaged rubber plantations in several provinces of Thailand in the last week of September besides causing heavy rains, flash floods, and water run-offs.

In August, northern Thailand was hit by the tropical storm ‘Sinlaku’ causing flash floods in 18 northern provinces of the country. The loss in output arising from previous year’s incidence of a new fungal leaf disease is already factored in. Abnormal leaf fall resulting from fungal diseases usually impacts on the yield performance of the affected for two succeeding years.

In India, the production anticipated in 2020 has been scaled down by 42,000 tonnes to 668,000 tonnes, ANRPC study said. The revised outlook represents a 4.8% decline from the previous year as against a 1.1% anticipated increase reported a month ago. The country’s NR production sector is impacted by a burst in the number daily new cases of Covid-19 infections in the State of Kerala since the beginning of September and the abnormal leaf fall caused by the outbreak of Phytophthora leaf disease during July and August. It is reported that the incidence of abnormal leaf fall during this year is less severe compared to the previous year.

Demand fall

There has also been a fall in world consumption of NR by 11.7% y/y to 8.151 million tonnes during the first eight months of 2020 (Jan-Aug), as per preliminary estimates. Based on the revised estimates and forecasts, the world consumption outlook for the full year 2020 is marginally scaled up by 67,000 tonnes to 12.611 million tonnes by representing an 8.4% fall from the previous year. The outlook for 2020 as reported a month ago was 12.544 million tonnes by representing an 8.9% fall from the previous year.

China has marginally revised up its consumption outlook for 2020 in view of an observed earlier-than expected economic recovery and acceleration in growth. A survey conducted by Nikkei revealed that the growth has been more pronounced in the manufacturing sector. The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) improved to 51.5 in September from 51.0 recorded in August and 51.3 anticipated for September, according to a survey conducted by the country’s National Bureau of Statistics and the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing. The country’s automobile sector has made a major turnaround. The domestic retail sales of passenger vehicles, including minivans, SUVs and multipurpose vehicles, increased 7.4% y/y in September 2020, the third straight monthly gain. The domestic sales of passenger vehicles had increased 6.0% y/y in August 2020.

As per the revised outlook, China is anticipated to consume 5.055 million tonnes of NR during 2020, down 8.9% from the previous year. The country’s consumption outlook for 2020, as reported a month ago was 5.043 million tonnes, down 9.1% from the previous year.

India has scaled-up its consumption outlook for 2020 to 923,000 tonnes from 900,000 tonnes reported earlier in the year. Auto sales in India have made a U-turn. The domestic sales of passenger car increased 31.3% y/y in September 2020, the highest growth over the past 27 months. The trend reversal in passenger car is driven by preference for personal mobility during the pandemic, gradual opening up of markets, easing of supply-chains, labour availability, and excitement of new vehicle launches. The domestic sales of two-wheeler grew 12% y/y in September 2020, the highest growth over the past 21 months. Sales of tractor increased 16% y/y during the month, the highest growth over many years in the past.  The domestic sales of LVC (Light Commercial Vehicles) and M&HCV (Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles) declined by 3.0% each during the month, after double digit declines till August 2020.

Looking ahead, according to ANRPC, the world demand for NR will remain constrained by the uncertainties clouding the global economic recovery, acceleration in the number of new coronavirus cases, reintroduction of control measures and partial lockdowns across countries and a likely long delay in the mass availability of the vaccine. On the positive side, there are increased hopes of further fiscal aid in the US to keep its economy on track. The White House has reportedly raised its stimulus offer from the earlier proposed $1.0 trillion to $1.5 trillion, and further to $1.8 trillion, though that is still short of $2.2 trillion proposed by the Democrats.

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Michelin has introduced two new high-efficiency tyres – the MICHELIN Primacy ^{5 energy} and MICHELIN Pilot Sport ^{5 energy}. These two new product families have been developed in direct response to the shifting requirements of contemporary vehicle design. With the automotive industry’s rapid transition toward electrification, manufacturers are increasingly demanding tyres that deliver an exacting balance of low rolling resistance, tenacious grip, extended durability and precise handling dynamics. Both new ranges have been engineered to fulfil these criteria, offering tangible benefits such as extended range for electric vehicles and reduced fuel consumption for internal combustion models, all while upholding uncompromising standards of safety and longevity.

The MICHELIN Primacy ^{5 energy} is distinguished by its triple A-rating for wet braking, rolling resistance and external rolling noise. Compared to its predecessor, it achieves wet braking distances that are up to eight percent shorter, both when the tyre is new and when worn down to two millimetres of tread depth. Its best-in-class longevity is enabled by Energy Passive 2.0 Technology, which employs functionalised elastomers, advanced resins and a refined architecture to deliver the highest mileage in its European segment, including on electric vehicles. Independent tests have shown it can outlast leading competitors by as much as 40 percent in comparable conditions. The efficiency gains are substantial, offering up to six percent lower fuel consumption, which translates to roughly 0.3 litres saved per 100 kilometres, along with a 10 percent increase in electric vehicle range. These figures mean substantial fuel savings and a 327 kg reduction in CO₂ emissions over the tyre’s lifespan.

The MICHELIN Pilot Sport ^{5 energy} merges motorsport-derived engineering with energy-conscious design. Leveraging Dynamic Response Technology and a new Adaptive Grip Compound, it delivers the precise steering feedback and superior wet and dry grip expected from a high-performance tyre. MaxTouch Technology addresses the historically rapid wear associated with performance vehicles by optimising the contact patch for even wear distribution, while an Energy Passive compound in the shoulder areas achieves an unprecedented level of rolling resistance for this category. The result is a sport tyre that not only significantly outperforms key rivals in longevity tests but also secures an A rating for rolling resistance. Its endurance credentials were validated during the MERCEDES AMG GT CONCEPT XX world record, where it sustained a constant speed of 300 kmph for nearly eight days, demonstrating exceptional durability and energy efficiency under extreme conditions.

Both ranges are now being rolled out with a clear focus on meeting the specific demands of modern mobility. The Primacy ^{5 energy} is initially available in 33 sizes spanning 16 to 19 inches, while the Pilot Sport ^{5 energy} launches with 19 sizes across 19 to 21 inches. By addressing the dual imperatives of enhanced performance and reduced environmental impact, Michelin aims to reinforce its position in a segment that continues to dominate global tyre sales, offering solutions that cater equally to the needs of electric vehicles, hybrids and traditional internal combustion engine cars.

Jean-Claude Pats, Automobile and Two-Wheel Business Line Director and member of Michelin’s Executive Committee, said, “These innovations reflect a profound transformation in mobility. Today’s tyres must combine performance, longevity and energy efficiency while supporting the transition to electrified vehicles. With MICHELIN Primacy ^{5 energy} and MICHELIN Pilot Sport ^{5 energy}, drivers and manufacturers no longer need to compromise between performance, safety, durability and efficiency. These new ranges demonstrate Michelin’s continued investment in innovation and our ambition to deliver technologies that support the mobility needs of today and tomorrow.”

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TyreSafe, UK’s charity dedicated to raising tyre safety awareness, has formed a new alliance with TMS Consultancy, a specialist in road safety audits and training. This partnership unites two organisations dedicated to reducing casualties through the ‘Safe System’ framework, merging TMS Consultancy’s expertise in engineering with TyreSafe’s focus on vehicle safety advocacy.

With a 35-year track record that includes delivering over 19,000 Road Safety Audits and more than 2,500 training courses for clients across UK, Ireland and beyond, TMS Consultancy brings practical, tailored solutions to the collaboration. This complements TyreSafe’s longstanding mission to advance road safety through education, research and awareness, particularly regarding tyre condition and vehicle maintenance. Together, they aim to close the gap between road design and vehicle safety by embedding TyreSafe’s specialised knowledge into TMS Consultancy’s established training programmes. This equips road safety practitioners with a deeper understanding of how tyre health, braking distances and road surface interaction are critically linked.

This alliance also strengthens TyreSafe’s existing network of more than 250 supporters, which includes local authorities, transport bodies and police forces, helping to spread consistent, evidence-led tyre safety messages widely. Building on existing partnerships with the Institute of Highways Engineers and the Road Surface Treatment Association, TyreSafe continues to advance awareness of the connection between tyres and road infrastructure. By joining forces with organisations involved in road development and maintenance, TyreSafe further embeds the Safe System approach, working to mitigate human error through safer roads, vehicles, speeds and road users, alongside effective post-crash response.

Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair, said, “Road safety depends on every element of a vehicle being fit for purpose, and tyres are a critical part of that. Working with TMS Consultancy allows us to bring clear, practical tyre safety guidance to more organisations and road professionals, helping them understand how simple checks and maintenance can prevent incidents and save lives.”

Jess Waldron, Director, TMS Consultancy, said, “Partnering with TyreSafe aligns perfectly with our mission to make roads safer for everyone; increasing knowledge and sharing best practice across the sector is a responsibility we take seriously. By sharing TyreSafe’s ACT message through our training and professional networks, we can ensure that vehicle safety becomes a core consideration for road safety practitioners across the board.”

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The ZARE initiative held its 2026 partner meeting on 18 March 2026 in Schwenningen, hosted by the Bavarian used tyre disposal company Reifen Draws, which was simultaneously celebrating its 50th anniversary. Guests were given a firsthand look at the company’s modern recycling operations. For five decades, Reifen Draws has served tyre retailers, car dealerships and repair shops across a 200-kilometre radius, earning a reputation for reliable service and expert advice as a certified disposal firm.

During the meeting, partners described a strained market environment marked by declining business volumes, mounting price pressure and a growing shift towards lower-value scrap. Rising fuel costs add further strain, as these expenses can only be partially passed on. The situation underscores that maintaining stable, high-quality tyre recycling remains a persistent challenge requiring coordinated effort across the entire value chain.

On the political front, partners welcomed developments at the state level, notably the integration of used tyres into North Rhine-Westphalia’s circular economy strategy following an industry roundtable. However, ongoing discussions highlight the need to strengthen recycling markets and improve regulatory frameworks. In this context, a recent call by the European Court of Auditors to reinforce recycling markets – emphasising functioning markets, consistent implementation and reliable EU financing – was noted. The rise in export inquiries from non-OECD countries further reinforces the importance of transparent material flows and clear rules for a sustainable circular economy.

A notable highlight was a presentation by detection-X GmbH on automated tyre damage detection and sorting. A pilot project on damage analysis is already underway with one ZARE partner, aimed at enhancing process efficiency and recycling quality – a significant step towards a more effective circular economy.

For the coming year, the partners have prioritised a joint presence at THE TIRE COLOGNE trade fair, along with refining tendering standards, addressing declining online inquiries and strengthening public outreach. These efforts seek to raise the visibility of certified used tyre disposal and underscore the value of high-quality recycling.

Looking ahead, the new Waste Shipment Regulation, taking effect in May 2026 and becoming mandatory in 2027, will introduce significant organisational and documentation demands affecting international material flows. ZARE partners intend to actively incorporate this topic into relevant industry events.

Overall, the 2026 partner meeting reaffirmed that while the industry faces considerable challenges, it benefits from strong networks, innovative capacity and a clear sense of purpose. In a demanding market environment, close collaboration remains essential as the ZARE partners continue advancing sustainable, high-quality solutions for end-of-life tyres across the entire value chain.

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Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc., the parent organisation of Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. and Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc., has officially inaugurated a new tyre warehouse in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. This facility is scheduled to commence its initial outbound shipping operations on 1 April 2026, marking a significant step in the company’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. The strategic development of this warehouse directly supports the corporation’s midterm expansion objectives while aiming to reduce service times for key dealers and customers throughout that part of the country.

Spanning 409,500 square feet, this distribution hub offers storage capacity for as many as 368,000 tyres. Its primary purpose is to elevate service and distribution capabilities across 14 states in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, creating a ripple effect that allows the company’s existing tyre warehouses to operate with greater efficiency and maintain more consistent stock levels. By alleviating pressure on other locations, the new facility helps streamline the broader supply chain network, ensuring that inventory is positioned to meet regional demand more responsively.

In addition to its regional distribution role, the Shippensburg location is set to receive product directly from Toyo’s manufacturing facility in Serbia via the Port of New York and New Jersey. Plans are already in place to convert the site into a Foreign Trade Zone during the latter half of the year, a move intended to facilitate winter delivery operations for Toyo Canada. Equipped with advanced technology tailored specifically for tyre storage, this new warehouse represents the fifth tyre production warehouse and distribution centre established by the company across the continental United States, further solidifying its logistical infrastructure.

Curtis Maggard, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Logistics, said, “This warehouse represents a significant investment by Toyo, providing improved supply and faster service levels to our valued customers in the region. The warehouse is designed specifically for high volume tyre storage and will support Toyo’s sales forecast.”

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