European rubber industry groups form Covid ‘crisis unit’

London – Rubber industry associations in a number of EU states have set up a Covid-19 ‘crisis unit’ under the aegis of the European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA).

The initiative, which involves SNCP (France), WDK (Germany), Consorcio del Caucho (Spain), Assogomma (Italy) and other industrial federations, is focused on information-sharing and interfacing with the European Commission.

Activities include weekly teleconference sessions to share the latest updates and coordinate measures to restart production, said Christian Caleca, director general of Centre Français du Caoutchouc et des Polymères.

In a separate statement to ERJ, the ETRMA said it was working closely with its member associations and companies across the EU to manage the impact of this crisis on the European tire and rubber sector.

"This collaboration includes exchanging information and maintaining close contact with the European Commission regarding measures to first support and protect our people and second ensure a swift economic recovery," said ETRMA secretary general Fazilet Cinaralp.