Sharp decreases in demand for original equipment manufacturer commercial truck tires should result in a drop in tire shipments by about 13 percent in 2009
, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association.

Tire shipments in 2009 are expected to fall 36 million units to 246 million units, a reflection of the continued weak economic environment for automotive manufacturers over the last year, coupled with low consumer confidence and high unemployment.

While 2009 numbers look dim, the consumer and commercial sectors are stabilizing, and the tire industry should see a 6 percent uptick in 2010. Tire shipment levels are expected to reach 260 million units next year.

For 2009, the market for OE medium, wide-base, and heavy on-highway commercial truck tires will experience a 41 percent drop to about 2.3 million units. A net gain of about 350,000 units is anticipated for 2010, due to the economic rebound. This year, the market for replacement tires in the same sector should fall by about 2.3 million to about 12.6 million units. However, with the economic rebound forecast for 2010, this market is expected to increase by less than 1 million to nearly 13 million units.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association is the national trade association for the rubber products industry and includes more than 60 company members.

More info: www.rma.org