The WRS 2021, organised by IRSG (International Rubber Study Group) together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire and co-hosted by the Association des Professionales du Caoutchou Naturelle de Côte d’Ivoire (APROMAC) the Fonds Interprofessionnel pour la Recherche et le Conseil Agricoles (FIRCA), was a prime opportunity for leaders, experts, government representatives and NGOs to discuss the current status of the rubber industry and explore the way forward to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth. This year’s WRS featured the very timely theme, ‘Facing the Future: Inclusiveness, Sustainability and Growth for the Next Normal’.

The WRS 2021 was officially opened by HE M. Jerome Patrick Achi, Prime Minister, Government of Côte d’Ivoire, in recognition of the important role that Africa can play as an emerging producer of natural rubber. The event has highlighted that the rubber economy could be a formidable engine for the continent, creating jobs and transforming its economic and social prospects, and providing opportunities for the youth and women – real key drivers of sustainable growth, development and peace. 

The WRS 2021 witnessed 29 eminent speakers from all parts of the world, about 200 participants directly linked to the virtual platform and significant public participation in Côte d’Ivoire, where stakeholders in the rubber sector interacted in person during the event.  

Innovative ideas and approaches emerged during the summit to address the new challenges that can change the global pattern of production and consumption in the rubber sector, market and policy discussions on new approaches in business and life to turn the crisis into an opportunity from the lessons learnt. Discussions around the decarbonisation commitment of governments justifying sustainable and secure supply chains for raw materials were focussed on supply chain collaboration, ensuring that raw material efficiency, performance and traceability are dealt with holistically.

An important debate took place on the impact of climate change on natural rubber systems, which has potential economic, environmental and social risks, identifying a set of policy recommendations that could facilitate the work of all stakeholders in the rubber value chain.

The latest IPCC report , published in August 2021, has highlighted that human activity is changing the climate in an unprecedented and sometimes irreversible way. Actions on the adaptation of natural rubber systems to climate changes are urgently needed and further investigations into the potential contribution of rubber to climate change mitigation.

Work-based on scientific knowledge is the precondition to identifying correct pathways to preserve and support the growth and prosperity of the natural rubber economy worldwide. In this field, IRSG has had a leading role thanks to the support of important R&D organisations such as CIFOR/FTA, IRRDB and CIRAD.

In his closing remarks, Salvatore Pinizzotto, Secretary-General IRSG, has pointed out that the main common point that emerged during the World Rubber Summit is the need to formulate policies and put into place people-centred actions. “If we look at the natural rubber sector alone, it sustains 40 million people with their families around the globe with a supply chain generating more than USD 300 billion. Furthermore, about 90 percent of the total world natural rubber production is sourced by smallholders. 

“To build an inclusive and sustainable rubber community, we need to work at local, national and international level – there is not a ‘one-size-fits-all solution – putting in place innovative forms of cooperation across national borders and a variety of actors – governments, business, academia and civil society. Reduce poverty-establishing mechanisms that could provide  smallholders with an adequate income level, implement an effective technology transfer on the field and support education and training among farmers, especially young people and women. These are some of the policies needed to implement sustainability. Leveraging digital technology in farming and green finance options encouraging climate change adaptation are other key policies to assure emission reduction and social inclusion."

 In closing the World Rubber Summit 2021, the Honourable KobenanKouassiAdjourmani, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Government of Côte d’Ivoire, has strongly stated that Africa is completely committed to implementing sustainability practices in the rubber sector, making sure that all the rubber value chain is equitable, profitable and transparent.  

"Sustainability and circular economy are two aspects that we need to keep high on the agenda of all stakeholders in the rubber economy. We need to make sure that both natural and synthetic rubber sectors comply with the adopted 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development." (TT)

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Facing mounting pressure on the industrial sector, the German rubber industry is demanding that the federal government adopt a crisis-mode approach. Michael Klein, President of the German Rubber Industry Association (wdk), issued the warning in Frankfurt am Main, criticising policymakers in both Germany and Europe for inaction while manufacturing firms, especially mid-sized companies, are already operating at maximum alert and fighting for survival.

Klein expressed strong support for the ‘Enough with the snail's pace!’ initiative launched by the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI), which calls for accelerated reforms. He also aligned with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s view that economic policy must move more swiftly. According to Klein, the wave of site closures and production relocations underscores the severe strain on Germany as an industrial hub. He stressed that all nationally controllable competitive disadvantages must now be eliminated without delay.

To achieve this, Klein proposed tangible steps such as lowering the national CO₂ price and temporarily suspending national emissions trading, alongside a significant and immediately noticeable reduction in bureaucratic burdens.

Addressing broader economic pressures, the wdk president warned of additional strains from the conflict involving Iran. He pointed to surging fuel prices driving up transport costs and disruptions to global container shipping routes, which are increasingly jeopardising supply chains across sectors, including the rubber industry. With multiple crises converging, Klein cautioned that without swift countermeasures, Germany’s status as a production location faces further irreversible damage.

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Cooper Tires, a subsidiary of Goodyear, has unveiled a completely reimagined global brand identity aimed at increasing visibility, sharpening consumer recognition and reinforcing its position within a fiercely competitive market. The refresh speaks directly to drivers who rely on durable, dependable tyres.

Drawing on more than a century of building trust with those who expect peak performance, the new look merges Cooper’s established legacy with a contemporary aesthetic. The result conveys strength, intentionality and assurance. Central to the update are refined brand marks, an updated colour palette and a modern design approach tailored to stand out in both physical retail spaces and digital environments.

The evolution pays homage to two symbolic figures. One returns to Cooper’s history: a knight’s helm, first adopted in the 1940s following the brand’s Armored Cord tyre innovation, now reimagined with sharper lines to lead Cooper forward. Joining it is the American grey wolf, native to Ohio where Cooper is rooted. Representing adaptability, resolve and readiness for any terrain, the wolf reflects the brand’s character and the mindset of its drivers. Both icons will appear prominently across major brand materials.

The updated colour system balances heritage with visibility. Valor Green nods to Cooper’s history of crafting products for rugged conditions and natural landscapes, symbolising endurance and expertise. A heritage orange accent recalls the brand’s early days, adding energy and distinction. The overall palette draws inspiration from nature, a core element of Cooper’s identity.

Additional updates span typography, photography and illustration. Developed with Publicis P1T Crew and creatively led by BBH USA, the rollout begins in March 2026 with global website and social media updates, along with select paid media campaigns. Retail point-of-sale materials will follow gradually to ensure a consistent worldwide experience.

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Titan International, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of off-highway wheels, tyres, assemblies and undercarriage products, has announced a decision to consolidate its North American manufacturing footprint. This strategic move will result in the closure of the company’s facility in Jackson, Tennessee, by the end of October 2026. The consolidation reflects Titan’s ongoing efforts to optimise operations and improve capacity utilisation across its existing network.

Production currently performed at the Jackson site is expected to be transitioned to other Titan facilities over the coming months. The closure will affect approximately 140 employees. Titan has committed to supporting these team members throughout the transition, working closely with local leadership to provide assistance that includes severance packages, continuation of benefits and job placement support.

Despite the Jackson closure, Titan will continue to operate a robust network of manufacturing facilities across North America. This network ensures the company remains well positioned to serve customers across a diverse range of off-highway end markets, including outdoor power equipment, powersports, agriculture, construction and earthmoving.

Paul Reitz, President and CEO, Titan International, said, “The decision to consolidate production and close the Jackson facility is difficult knowing the impact it has on our team members and their families. Titan continues to take deliberate actions to improve its operating efficiency while maintaining the flexibility and scale required to serve our customers.”

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America's Tire has entered into a new multiyear partnership with Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union, marking an immediate collaboration that will extend across several future seasons. Under the three-year agreement, the tyre retailer assumes the role of the Union’s Official Tire Retailer. Its branding will be prominently displayed on the rooftop of Subaru Park, complemented by field-level signage visible during broadcasts of home games. Beyond stadium presence, the company will engage fans through a digital and social content series featuring Union players and will also lend its support to the historic Army-Navy Cup.

Having established its first Philadelphia location in 2024, America's Tire has positioned itself as a local authority on tyre safety. The company now operates three area stores, including one in Burlington, New Jersey. This alliance with the Union broadens America's Tire’s existing commitment to road safety for professional soccer supporters, building on its role as the Official Tire Retailer of Major League Soccer during the league’s 31st season – a designation that encompasses marquee events like the MLS All-Star Game and MLS Cup.

In Philadelphia and across 20 other MLS markets, America's Tire provides tyres, wheels and wiper blades through online and in-store channels, supported by expert teams for safety checks and installations. In addition to the Burlington location, fans near the Union can visit its stores in Exton and Whitehall, Pennsylvania.

Tom Williams, Chief Experience Officer, America's Tire, said, "As America's Tire continues to expand its presence in the Northeast, our objective is to exceed customer expectations by ensuring consistent, reliable support across every interaction.”

Charlie Slonaker, Chief Revenue Officer, Philadelphia Union, said, "We're excited to welcome America's Tire as a partner of the Philadelphia Union. Through this partnership, we share a commitment to helping keep our communities safe by raising awareness about tyre safety and road readiness among our fans."

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