Brussels - The European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) is closely following developments in Ukraine and gathering information to assist the industry, while hoping for an early, diplomatic end to the crisis.

An initial round of inquiries among members has shown that “the top priority concerns the safety and security of the people directly affected,” said Fazilet Cinaralp, secretary general of the ETRMA.

Supply-chain issues are another area of concern, with Russia and Ukraine representing a significant supply source for synthetic rubber and carbon black for tire makers and technical parts manufacturers.

“Industry is already facing logistical and transportation issues In Ukraine and Russia in supplying their plants and delivering to customers,” reported Cinaralp. 

Tire manufacturers, she noted, have largely suspended tire production intended for export from their Russian plants.

To optimise operations and adapt flow management, several companies have decided to temporarily stop production at some of the European plants for a few days in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, to ensure continuity ETRMA members are actively pursuing plans to establish alternative sources of supply in case the overall situation worsens.

“Our sector companies, like many industries involved, rely on global operations and the international flow of goods,” Cinaralp pointed out.

“A mid- to longer-term plan is urgently needed in order to allow the sector to benefit from a strategy to avoid disruptions and protect the workforce,” the ETRMA leader emphasised.