The importation of low-quality tyres threatens the retreading industry

The process of retreading involves the repair and renewal of used tyres. A retreaded tyre is produced from a used casing to which a new tread is attached. This process extends the lifespan of a tyre and reduces waste.

The retreading industry in Spain has seen a resurgence in recent years, driven by increasing environmental awareness and the pursuit of more sustainable solutions in the transport sector.

However, despite being a sustainable and efficient alternative within the circular economy, its market presence has declined in recent years due to the rise in imports of new low-cost tyres and the lack of incentives for retreading.

According to Javier de Jesús Landesa, the Chief Operating Officer of Used Tyre Treatment (TNU), it is necessary to "revitalise the sector, protect local employment, and promote environmentally responsible business practices."

Landesa explains that in Spain, the sector generates approximately 5,000 direct jobs and 100,000 indirect jobs, many of which are in rural areas. However, since 2004, the production of retreaded tyres has decreased by 52%, from 1,132,500 units to just 540,850 in 2022. Currently, only 19 companies operate compared to the 46 that existed two decades ago.

The sector understands that the retreading industry has experienced a significant decline in activity. For decades, this practice has proven to be one of the best solutions within the concept of a circular economy. Reusing casings in good condition to extend the lifespan of tyres reduces raw material consumption by 70%, decreases CO2 emissions by 24%, and reduces water usage in production by 19%, according to European Union data.

"The situation is critical, and we need to change our consumption habits to move towards a sustainable economy. We are in the midst of a climate and environmental crisis that no one is unaware of. In this context, tyre retreading is one of the best recycling and circular economy alternatives: it is simple and safe. Any tyre with a casing in good condition can be retreaded simply by changing its tread, thus restoring the tyre's original properties and doubling its lifespan. In fact, all tyres with suitable casings are retreadable," explains Javier de Jesús Landesa.

Retreaded tyres are widely used in transport and industrial fleets, with a 42% adoption rate in this segment, according to a study by the European Retreading Association. Their cost-benefit ratio is evident: they allow for a reduction in tyre expenses by up to 10% and extend lifespan by an additional 150%. Moreover, their safety is proven, being used even in commercial aircraft.

Despite these advantages, the production and consumption of retreaded tyres in major European markets (UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain) have fallen by 25% between 2015 and 2023, according to recent industry data. This is due, among other factors, to the greater availability of imported tyres of lower quality and reduced price.