According to the China Rubber Industry Association, starting June 1, 2007, the United States will introduce new tire testing standards. Any tires that fail to meet these updated requirements will be prohibited from entering the U.S. market. Additionally, tires already in the market that do not comply with the new rules may be subject to recalls. This development signals a significant challenge for Chinese tire manufacturers exporting to the U.S., as they now face stricter compliance barriers.
The U.S. remains the largest export market for Chinese tires. In 2004 alone, exports of tires to the U.S. surged by 38%, surpassing Japan's long-standing dominance. The volume of automobile tires exported reached 22.885 million units, making up 33% of China’s total tire exports. Specifically, 116.629 million passenger car tires were exported, accounting for 51% of all U.S. tire imports. These figures highlight how crucial the U.S. market is to China’s tire industry.
The upcoming FMVSS139 standards apply to all vehicle tires with a total rated mass of 4.5 tons or less. The most notable change is the increased stringency of safety parameters. For example, the speed test under low-pressure conditions will rise from 121 km/h, 129 km/h, and 137 km/h to 140 km/h, 150 km/h, and 160 km/h. The durability test will also be extended to 4,080 kilometers, a 1.5-fold increase. Additional tests include tire detachment, aging, air permeability, and road hazard assessments. Industry experts suggest that these changes will have a more pronounced impact on the export of passenger and light truck tires, particularly in terms of high-speed performance. Failure to adapt quickly could result in product recalls.
Gu Hongzhen, president of the China Rubber Industry Association, emphasized that the new U.S. standards and recall system pose a serious challenge. He urged companies to remain vigilant and take proactive measures. In response, the association has brought together key players to discuss the implications of the new regulations. A consensus was reached: China must develop its own core technologies and focus on improving the high-speed performance, durability, and quality stability of domestic tire products.
This shift underscores the importance of innovation and adaptation for the future growth of China’s tire industry. As global standards become more rigorous, maintaining competitiveness will require continuous improvement and technological advancement.
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