US Tariff Hike Threatens India’s Tyre Export Growth, ATMA Warns
- By TT News
- August 28, 2025
India's tyre industry has warned that steep new US tariffs could severely damage the country's export momentum to its largest overseas market, as manufacturers face duties of up to 50 percent compared with lower rates for regional competitors.
The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers' Association (ATMA) stated on Wednesday that the tariff increases place Indian exporters at a significant disadvantage compared to rivals from China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia, which continue to benefit from substantially lower duties.
Under the new structure, Indian tyre exports will face tariffs of 50 percent on most categories and 25 percent on specific segments, the industry body said.
The United States accounts for 17 percent of India's tyre exports across more than 170 countries. In the financial year 2024-25, India's total tyre exports exceeded INR 250 billion for the first time, with the US market contributing over INR 43 billion.
"The Indian tyre industry has invested over INR 280 billion in recent years to expand both greenfield and brownfield capacities to meet rising domestic and global demand. Hike in US tariffs will severely constrain the ability of Indian manufacturers to sustain export momentum established in the last few years, particularly since the US is our largest export destination," said Arun Mammen, Chairman of ATMA.
The industry is already grappling with competitive pressures from inadequate government support schemes, ATMA said. The current RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) rates for tyres stand at 1.3 per cent and 0.8 per cent under Advance Authorisation, which is well below the three per cent offered under the previous MEIS (Merchandise Exports from India Scheme).
ATMA has called for RoDTEP benefits to be increased to four percent and extended to tyre exports under Advance Authorisation. The association also seeks to raise duty drawback rates to 10 percent from the current 3.6 percent, arguing that existing rates fail to offset duties on imported raw materials ranging between 7.5 percent and 20 percent.
The sector faces additional challenges from a domestic natural rubber shortage, forcing manufacturers to import nearly 40 percent of their requirements for this critical raw material. ATMA has urged the government to permit duty-free imports equivalent to the demand-supply gap, citing recent customs duty exemptions on raw cotton imports as precedent.
"Developing an export market requires years of sustained effort and investment. While the Indian tyre industry has the resilience to explore new geographies, this is a time-consuming process. Immediate policy support will be critical to ensure that India does not lose ground in a highly competitive global market," Mammen added.
The association has also emphasised the need for enhanced research and development incentives, alongside advanced manufacturing support, to strengthen the sector's long-term global competitiveness.
Toyo Tires Secures CDP ‘A List’ Recognition For Actions Against Climate Change
- By TT News
- January 10, 2026
Toyo Tires has made its way to the annual A-List of CDP for its climate change mitigation efforts. This premier recognition, awarded for the first time to the company in the 2025 evaluation, reflects the company’s comprehensive decarbonisation efforts, which include validated science-based targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions and a shift towards renewable energy at its production sites. CDP’s annual assessment is a key benchmark for corporate sustainability across climate, water and forests.
The assessment also highlighted Toyo Tires' commitment to transparency, as verified by independent third-party data reviews. Viewing its business activities as intrinsically connected to society and the future, the Toyo Tires Group treats reducing environmental impact as a top operational priority.
Moving forward, the company is dedicated to advancing decarbonization across all its manufacturing processes and broader supply chain, aiming to support a sustainable global society.
Apollo Tyres Expands Vredestein Gravel Tyre Range With Aventura Core Series
- By TT News
- January 10, 2026
Apollo Tyres Ltd has introduced a new and more affordable range of gravel tyres under the Vredestein Aventura Core Series. This new-generation family consists of three distinct models: the Aventura Seta Core, Aventura Core and Aventura Grezzo Core. Engineered in Europe, these tyres are built for enhanced durability and dependable performance across diverse surfaces, offering riders a cost-effective upgrade for adventure biking.
The series is constructed around a streamlined Core platform, which incorporates a robust 60 TPI casing for increased puncture resistance and stable handling on uneven terrain. While utilising the proven tread patterns of existing Vredestein gravel tyres, this refined construction delivers high-end capability at a more accessible price point.
Each model is tailored for specific riding conditions. The Aventura Seta Core is designed for speed, with a race-optimised tread for fast rolling on asphalt and high-speed gravel, complemented by shoulder knobs for technical cornering. For versatile, everyday use, the Aventura Core offers a balanced blend of rolling efficiency and predictable grip across tarmac, hardpack and gravel roads. Finally, the Aventura Grezzo Core provides confidence on loose and rugged terrain, featuring an aggressive tread for enhanced traction in sand and soft surfaces, while its chained centre tread maintains efficiency on harder ground.
The Aventura Core Series will be available starting 1 February 2026. The Aventura Seta Core comes in 40, 45 and 50-622 sizes. The Aventura Core is offered in 50-584 and 40, 45, 50-622 sizes. The Aventura Grezzo Core is available in 50-584 and 40, 45, 50-622 sizes. Colour options include black/black and black/transparent sidewalls.
Nic Knippers, Division Head – Vredestein Two Wheel Tyres, Apollo Tyres Ltd, said, “The Aventura Core Series marks an important expansion of our gravel offering within the Vredestein range. By introducing three purpose-designed tyres built on a shared durable foundation, we can better support riders across the full spectrum of gravel terrain – from high-speed racing to off-road exploration and everyday mixed-surface riding.”
Continental Expands HDR 5 And HSR 5 Tyre Lines With New Size
- By TT News
- January 10, 2026
Continental Tires Americas has expanded its HDR 5 and HSR 5 19.5-inch product lines with a new 245/70R19.5 size, specifically engineered for urban and regional delivery fleets.
These tyres are built to endure high-scrub environments and the demanding stop-and-go cycles typical of city routes. Key advancements include a reformulated tread compound that reduces rolling resistance for better fuel economy while also extending tread life. The redesigned sidewall enhances durability to support multiple retreads, maximising the value of each tyre casing. Furthermore, both models are validated for use on electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as traditional combustion engines.
This size extension provides a practical option for fleets seeking to improve operational cost-efficiency and tyre longevity under rigorous driving conditions, continuing the proven performance of the existing series with targeted upgrades.
NIRT Silver Jubilee Celebrations Commence In Kottayam
- By TT News
- January 10, 2026
The Silver Jubilee of the National Institute for Rubber Training (NIRT) commenced on the morning of 9 January 2026 at Kottayam's Hevea Hall. Union Minister of State George Kurian formally inaugurated the event, with Member of Parliament K Francis George presiding. Attendees also heard an address from MLA Chandi Oommen.
A wide array of activities marked the inaugural programme. These included unveiling a commemorative monument, honouring former NIRT Directors and recognising student cohorts. Several publications and materials were launched, such as a Silver Jubilee souvenir and tutorial videos for stakeholders. The new jubilee logo was revealed, and a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Rubber Board and the Government of Nagaland.
The ceremony further involved prize distributions for earlier competitions and celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of Rubber magazine. The day's schedule continued with a curated panel discussion and a dedicated exhibition at the NIRT campus.
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