The groundbreaking for Sumitomo Rubber Industries' first tire factory in Central and South America took place in Fazenda Rio Grande City, Brazil, on Jan. 27.
The ceremony marked the commencement of work on the new plant, which is scheduled to start operation in October 2013. Around R$560 million (£206.8 million) is being invested in first-stage construction work at the plant. By the time this initial stage project is operating at full steam at the end of 2016, the Fazenda Rio Grande City plant will produce 15,000 passenger car radials per day (2,200 tons per month).
The plant will be operated by Sumitomo Rubber do Brasil Ltda., a 100% Sumitomo Rubber-owned subsidiary. The company was established in July 2011 with a view to meeting increasing regional demand for passenger car tires. (Tyres & Accessories)