US tyre shipments drop below 1998 levels, with worse expected in 2009

ERJ staff report (DS)

Washington, D.C., -- US tyre shipments are projected to decline by more than six percent this year compared to 2007 with a further one percent decline predicted for 2009, according to the US-based Rubber Manufacturers Association. Total tyre shipments were below 300 million for the first time since 1997 when shipments were 290 million units.

The decrease reflects the sharp downward revisions in the domestic economic conditions predicted for both the consumer and commercial sectors. Overall, the combined OE and replacement tyre shipments for 2008 light vehicle and truck categories are anticipated to decrease by more than 20 million units to approximately 290 million total shipments compared to the 310 million total shipments in 2007.

A further slight decline of approximately 3 million total units to nearly 287 million total units is anticipated for 2009 as an economic rebound is unlikely to occur until the latter half of the year.

This is an external link and should open in a new window. If the window does not appear, please check your pop-up blocking software. ERJ is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Press release from RMA