Are Tariffs an Opportunity for Thai Makers?

Although the U.S. decision to charge higher tariffs on consumer tires produced in China has presented the country’s manufacturers and importers of the product with a sizeable hurdle, the Kasikorn Research Center, a subsidiary of Thailand’s Kasikorn Bank, believes the decision presents Thai exporters with a major opportunity to increase their marketshare.

The Bangkok Post reports that passenger car tires from Thailand previously sold for an average of $39.82 each in the U.S. market, compared with $30.96 for Chinese tires. Thai tires for small trucks were priced at $66.41, compared with $50.97 for Chinese units.

The 35% additional tariff that took effect on Sept. 26 elevate the price of Chinese tires to match those made in Thailand. The Kasikorn Research Center thus believes the export value of Thai tyres to the U.S. could potentially reach $225 million, well above the earlier estimate of $125 million. (Tyres & Accessories)

Ascot Supply Corporation, based in Newnan, Georgia, has selected Mark Paquette for the newly created position of vice president. In this position, Ascot Supply said Paquette will oversee the growth of the company's products, corporate profitability, manage marketing and advertising and assume many other responsibilities.

He will work under the direction of current President David Kessler and officially begin his new role on June 3. Paquette joined the tire and automotive industry in the early 1980s at his father's tire shop, and his contributions to Mohawk Rubber Sales were instrumental in the company's growth and eventual sale to Myers Tire Supply in 2021, according to Ascot Supply. Paquette eventually was given a promotion to the role of director of operations at Myers Tire Supply.