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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Prinx Chengshan has introduced a new line of agricultural tyres at the 2026 Xinjiang International Agricultural Machinery Expo, which opened in Urumqi on 25 May. The Chengshan brand showcased products specifically designed for tractors and combine harvesters, responding to the growing performance demands of large-scale machinery driven by agricultural modernisation.

As tyres play a critical role in equipment efficiency, Prinx Chengshan has developed a full-chain innovation system covering fundamental research, application development and pilot verification. With a newly launched green and intelligent off-the-road tyre plant, the company now offers agricultural tyres that excel in durability and load capacity, providing cutting-edge solutions for global customers.

The Chengshan TX series addresses specific operational needs. The TX600, for tractors, features large tread lugs and flexible sidewalls to ensure stability and comfort during high-speed relocation. The TX700 uses a reinforced carcass and belt structure to handle heavy combined loads without deformation. The TX800 incorporates an R-1W deep tread pattern and wear-resistant compound to withstand sharp stubble, gravel and roots, extending tyre life and lowering costs. For combine harvesters, the TX2000 uses proprietary IF technology to deliver 20 percent higher load ratings at the same pressure, reducing soil compaction and protecting topsoil.

Moving forward, Prinx Chengshan will continue its product plus service strategy, supporting modern agriculture alongside global partners. The company aims to advance green farming practices and contribute to a sustainable future.

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Yokohama Tire has become a new partner of the Velocity Invitational, North America’s leading motorsport and lifestyle festival. The event is scheduled for 29-31 May at Sonoma Raceway in Northern California. The tyre manufacturer will showcase its ADVAN line of ultra-high-performance tyres and also support round four of the Porsche Sprint Challenge USA West by Yokohama.

The Velocity Invitational takes place in California’s wine country, blending world-class historic racing, modern hypercars, rare vehicle collections and immersive car culture. These attractions are paired with fine wines, luxury hospitality and exceptional culinary offerings.

Candace Cogan, Director of Product Marketing, Yokohama, confirmed several brand activations. These include ADVAN-livery vehicles on display and on track, such as the BBI Autosport Porsche 992 TurboCup ‘Dixie’ and a GT2 EVO tribute by Type-99. To mark the 75th anniversary of Porsche Motorsport, Yokohama will host a ‘Prost’ celebration featuring a curated video highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two brands.

Several Yokohama brand partners will attend. They include builder Vin Anatra, known for a Ferrari 360 rebuilt bolt-by-bolt on ADVAN A052 tyres; BBI Autosport founder Betim Berisha; photographer Larry Chen; filmmaker Sung Kang, famous for playing Han in ‘The Fast and the Furious’, whose upcoming film ‘DRIFTER’ features the ADVAN-shod hero car ‘Lola’ and Formula Drift hall of famer Daijiro ‘Dai’ Yoshihara.

Cogan said, “Yokohama is excited to be a sponsor of the Velocity Invitational, which is the ultimate festival of flat-out exhilaration and excitement. It’s a natural extension of our performance legacy and a powerful platform to showcase our iconic ADVAN tyres to enthusiasts united by a shared passion for car culture in every form.”

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The Tire Industry Project (TIP) has opened registration for its 2026 Tire Emissions Research Conference, scheduled for 8 to 10 December 2026 at the University of Cambridge in England. The event continues a series that began with successful gatherings in Munich in 2024 and Boston in 2025.

Building on prior editions, the 2026 conference maintains an exclusive focus on scientific research into tyre emissions and actionable countermeasures. This emphasis responds to rising global concern over tyre wear pollution, with organisers believing that progress depends on open knowledge exchange, multi-stakeholder collaboration and harmonised scientific methods.

The agenda covers the full scope of the issue, including tyre and road emission generation, environmental distribution and fate, ecological behaviour and impact, design alternatives and civil engineering or environmental practices for mitigating tyre and road wear particles and related chemicals. Participants range from scientists and industry practitioners to policymakers and experts in environmental and materials science.

Held at Jesus College within the prestigious University of Cambridge, the conference follows the tradition of partnering with world-class institutions such as the Technical University of Munich and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Abstract submissions are due by 29 May 2026, with further details and registration available on the event website.

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Kumho Tire has confirmed its participation at The Tire Cologne 2026, the world’s leading tyre exhibition, taking place in Cologne, Germany, from 9 to 11 June. The South Korean manufacturer will present key products at Hall 6.0, Stand B030 C039, including summer, winter, all-season and truck and bus tyres. The event is the largest and most prestigious global gathering for the tyre industry.

Under the theme ‘Innovation to Build the Future’, Kumho Tire will introduce its latest advancements and intelligent solutions for future mobility. The company aims to demonstrate technological excellence in stability and performance across driving conditions. Featured products include summer tyres such as the ECSTA SPORT S, ECSTA SPORT and ECSTA HS52, along with the winter tyre WinterCRAFT WP52+. Both ECSTA SPORT models are ultra-high-performance tyres gaining strong traction in the European market.

The WinterCRAFT WP52+, developed for European conditions, ranked third out of 51 entries in Auto Bild’s 2025 winter tyre test, earning an ‘Exemplary’ rating. Kumho Tire will also showcase MARSHAL brand products including the MU12, MH15 and MH22. The MU12 delivers stable handling, grip, braking and cornering at high speeds, as MARSHAL strengthens its global position combining performance with value.

Additional displays include the SOLUS HA32, WinterCRAFT ICE WI32, WI52, PorTran 4S CX11 and concept tyres Volume and Origami. Kumho Tire will invite key European customers for business meetings to explore partnerships, aiming to communicate its future vision, deepen engagement and expand its global footprint.

Tony Gangseung Lee, Head of Europe at Kumho Tire, said, “This exhibition presents a valuable opportunity to showcase our key products at the world’s largest tire event. We will leverage this platform to reinforce our position as a sustainable, future-oriented smart mobility partner and accelerate our transformation into a global premium brand.”

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