Import of automobile tires from China decreased in Russia

The import of automobile tires from China to Russia in January-February 2025 decreased by 8.5% compared to the same period last year and amounted to $85.7 million. This was reported on March 25 by Kommersant with reference to data from the Customs of the People's Republic of China. At the same time, in the first two months of 2024, imports increased by 35% to $93.7 million.

According to experts, the likely reason for the decrease in imports is the oversaturation of the tire market, which has arisen, among other things, against the background of the activation of Russian factories, as well as difficulties in logistics and transportation of goods from China, which lead to delays and increased costs for importers. Cordiant Holding said that the downward trend began at the end of last year against the background of tight monetary policy.

The market participants interviewed by the publication stated that last year they increased their production capacities in Russia and introduced new products to the market. In 2025, Cordiant intends to bring the Kaluga Gislaved tire factory to full capacity (about 3 million tires), and load the Ulyanovsk site by 50%, up to 1.2 million units. By the end of 2026, the holding's enterprises, including the sites in Omsk and Yaroslavl, should reach full capacity — 15 million tires per year.

In addition, Pirelli plans to update the model range and size range in the company's key premium segment. Ikon Tyres stated that they are developing their sales, including through the release of new standard sizes.

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Earlier, on March 19, Vadim Volodin, CEO of Cordiant JSC, said that last year sales of new passenger tires increased by 23% compared to 2023, and Chinese brand products occupied 70% of the market.