Indian Tyremakers to Import 25,000 Tonnes of Rubber

The imports come after a six-month lull during which shipments into the country came to a halt.

“Tyre companies are importing basically since we anticipate shortage of rubber. Contracts have been signed and consignments will begin arriving from April onwards,” said D. Ravindran, director-general of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association, the apex body of tyre makers in the country.

The peak-tapping season is coming to an end and for the tyre companies the peak production season is set to begin. During the peak production season, tapping would be on a low key what with monsoon setting in.

The tyre sector consumes 54% of the total rubber produced in the country. Last year, production was 755,000 tonnes, while this year it is estimated to touch 786,000 tonnes. Imports are reported to have totalled 68,718 tonnes in 2005. However, according to the newspaper tyre makers feel the production growth of around five per cent may not match the consumption growth of 5.5%.

Tyre companies import natural rubber duty-free under open general licence against export of tyres. They can import 44 tonnes of natural rubber for every 100 kilos of tyre exported.

Hercules Tire and Rubber Company (HTR), a subsidiary of American Tire Distributors (ATD), recently introduced the Ag-Trac F-2, a robust tire designed for multiple farm surfaces, HTR said. This tire is offered in two 16-in. sizes for 2WD front tractor wheel positions.

According to HTR, the Ag-Trac F-2 is built to withstand the demands of farm work, with a durable construction that ensures long-lasting performance. Its design allows for traction and grip on a variety of surfaces, making it ideal for use in fields, pastures and other agricultural environments. In addition to its durability, the company said its Ag-Trac F-2 also offers precise control and maneuverability, which it said is essential for navigating tight spaces and making sharp turns in the field.