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)
NEXEN TIRE Expands N'BLUE S Summer Tyre To Global Replacement Market
- By TT News
- March 16, 2026
NEXEN TIRE is strengthening its presence in the global replacement tyre market by introducing the N’BLUE S, a high-performance summer tyre, to emerging markets across Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Following a successful rollout in Europe, this expansion targets Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, Malaysia and Australia. These regions are ideal for summer tyres due to their consistently warm climates and minimal seasonal variation, aligning perfectly with the product’s design.
The N’BLUE S features an optimised contact patch structure that lowers rolling resistance, enhancing fuel efficiency and handling. Its multifunctional compound includes evenly dispersed materials that improve wet grip, ensuring stable and safe driving on rain-soaked roads. Each tyre also bears NEXEN TIRE’s EV ROOT mark, indicating it is engineered for exceptional performance across internal combustion, hybrid and electric vehicles. As electrification accelerates globally, this versatility allows the company to serve a broader customer base with a single product line.
The tyre’s capabilities are already proven through both European replacement sales and original equipment partnerships. It has been supplied for models including the Hyundai Casper EV, Kia Niro and PV5. Building on this established credibility with automakers, NEXEN TIRE aims to deepen consumer engagement by expanding availability in the replacement market, supporting long-term growth and revenue diversification.
John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO, NEXEN TIRE, said, “The N’BLUE S represents a key strategic model for the company, upgrading its existing summer lineup while extending OE-proven technology into the replacement market. To reinforce our global revenue base, we plan to gradually expand our presence in regions with stable year-round demand for summer tyres.”
Yokohama Rubber To Close Virginia Tyre Facility
- By TT News
- March 16, 2026
The Yokohama Rubber Company has confirmed its tyre plant in Salem, Virginia, will permanently cease operations with effect from 18 March 2026. This decision follows consultations with the labour union, resulting in an earlier closure than anticipated. Initially, production was to be scaled back in March with a potential shutdown in July, but negotiations accelerated the timeline. The company has held discussions with suppliers and customers, assuring that the closure will not cause supply chain interruptions. Yokohama Tire Corporation, the company's US subsidiary, has coordinated these efforts. For the approximately 570 affected employees, Yokohama is providing outplacement support in cooperation with local agencies and the union.
The Salem facility began operating in the 1960s and has been part of Yokohama since the Mohawk Rubber Company acquisition in 1989. The closure stems from challenges posed by ageing equipment and outdated methods, which hinder meeting production goals focused on high-value-added premium tyres, including ADVAN and GEOLANDAR brands, winter tyres and those sized 18 inches and larger. The company aims to strengthen output and sales of these products.
This move aligns with Yokohama Transformation 2026, the medium-term plan running from 2024 to 2026. The strategy emphasises maximising premium tyre sales while optimising production systems across the group to ensure sustainable profitability and long-term growth. The Salem plant closure directly reflects these efforts.
Despite the shutdown, United States remains one of the most important markets for Yokohama. Since establishing its US sales subsidiary in 1969, the company has expanded its production and sales network through proactive efforts. Yokohama is committed to adapting to global shifts, promoting sustainable business expansion and contributing to the US economy and society. The company continues to respond to changes in the global business environment.
Underinflated Tyres Secretly Burning Through Cash As Fuel Prices Surge, Warns TyreSafe
- By TT News
- March 15, 2026
TyreSafe, UK’s charity dedicated to raising tyre safety awareness, has issued a reminder that underinflated tyres can lead to higher fuel consumption, a concern that is especially relevant given the current geopolitical pressures on global energy markets. With pump prices beginning to climb again across the UK, motorists are being encouraged to carry out basic vehicle maintenance as a way to improve fuel efficiency.
This week, motoring organisations including the RAC and AA have urged drivers to adopt efficient driving habits and ensure their tyres are properly inflated to mitigate the impact of rising costs. Recent RAC Fuel Watch data reveals a significant increase at the pumps, with petrol climbing by approximately 4.68p per litre and diesel rising by around 8.59p per litre in just over a week, coinciding with escalating tensions in the Middle East.
According to TyreSafe, checking tyre pressures at least once a month and before longer trips is essential. Drivers should refer to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, typically listed in the vehicle handbook or on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame or fuel cap.
Many motorists may not realise that driving on underinflated tyres could be silently increasing their fuel bills. Research from The Motor Ombudsman indicates that more than half of all tyres on UK roads may be running below the ideal pressure. This increases rolling resistance, meaning the engine has to work harder to maintain normal speeds.
Even a modest drop in pressure can have an effect. A 10 percent reduction can raise fuel consumption by about two percent, adding unnecessary costs. Safety is also compromised, as a 20 percent decrease can impair handling and grip, heightening the risk of incidents. With costs rising again, a simple tyre check can support both road safety and household budgets.
Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “When fuel prices rise, drivers naturally look for ways to make their fuel last longer. One of the simplest things they can do is check their tyre pressures regularly. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which means the vehicle has to work harder and burn more fuel just to move forward. It may seem like a small issue, but over time it can quietly add to the cost of every journey. More importantly, tyres that are not inflated correctly can reduce grip, handling and overall vehicle stability. Keeping tyres at the correct pressure isn’t just about saving fuel – it’s a critical part of staying safe on the road.”
KMC Inaugurates Gambia’s First Tyre Recycling Plant
- By TT News
- March 15, 2026
Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has inaugurated The Gambia’s inaugural tyre recycling plant, a pioneering step forward in the nation's efforts to combat environmental degradation and manage waste. As per a report by The Point, this landmark facility, established with financial support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is engineered to process end-of-life tyres into reusable materials, directly confronting a long-standing waste issue that has seen discarded tyres obstruct waterways and blight communities for years.
During the inauguration, representatives from KMC highlighted the council's dedication to forward-thinking solutions, ecological responsibility and local advancement. The project was presented as a testament to the effective synergy between local governance and international cooperation in achieving significant environmental progress. The new plant is anticipated to yield substantial advantages, including mitigating pollution and enhancing urban cleanliness from an environmental perspective, while simultaneously unlocking economic potential through the creation of valuable resources from waste.
This, in turn, could stimulate local enterprise and generate employment. Officials characterised the venture as emblematic of a shared resolve to foster a cleaner and more resilient nation. By establishing this recycling facility, KMC has positioned itself at the vanguard of ecological innovation within the country, establishing a benchmark for future sustainable initiatives across The Gambia.
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