China’s Tire Export Restructure: Data Insights Into Shifting Global Markets
Customs data shows that in the first four months of this year, China exported 3.21 million tons of rubber tires, a year-on-year increase of 5.8%, and 237 million new pneumatic rubber tires, up 4.7% year on year.
Despite weak global consumer demand and a complex trade environment, China’s tire exports continue to grow, reflecting strong competitiveness in industrial chains, manufacturing efficiency and cost advantages.
However, export value edged down 0.1% year on year, indicating the industry is in a phase of trading price for volume. Higher shipment volume has been accompanied by compressed profit margins and intensified competition in the low-end market.
Traditional Major Markets Under Pressure
US market: In Q1 2026, US imports of Chinese rubber tires plunged 33% year on year, with TBR tires down 48%.
EU market: In the first two months, imports of Chinese PCR and LTR tires fell 45% year on year, with market share dropping from 74% to 52%.
Middle East market: Affected by geopolitical tensions and logistics disruptions, March exports of PCR tires to the Middle East plummeted 55.88% year on year.
Industry Challenges: Overdependence on Traditional Markets
The boom in overseas production in Southeast Asia has also shifted global supply toward “local manufacturing and delivery”, putting pressure on direct exports from China.
Strategic Shift: From Volume Growth to Value Growth
High-end product development, including EV tires, high-performance tires and low-rolling-resistance green tires.
Global layout of overseas factories and regional supply chains to avoid trade barriers.
Market diversification into emerging regions such as Latin America, Africa and Central Asia.
Positive Signs in April
Rubber tire exports reached 860,000 tons, up 8.1% year on year
Export value hit 14.113 billion yuan, up 1.6% year on year
While challenges remain, the direction is clear.
