Conti resumes tire production in Russia 'to protect employees'

Hanover, Germany – Continental is “temporarily resuming” production of passenger tires for the local market at its Russian plant in Kaluga, the company has confirmed.

The move is to “fulfil our duty of care to our employees in Russia” and protect them from prosecution, according to a Continental statement sent 21 April to ERJ.

“The current situation is extremely complex for international companies like Continental that have production sites in Russia,” the company explained.

For example, it said, “our employees and managers in Russia, are faced with the prospect of severe criminal penalties if we fail to meet local demand.”

Continental said it continues to comply with all applicable sanctions and legal regulations imposed as a result of the war in Ukraine.

By temporarily resuming production in the Kaluga tire plant, Continental emphasised that it “is no way motivated by profit.”

“Our thoughts are with the people in Ukraine. The combat operations must end as quickly as possible,” the statement concluded.