Tire Review, April 1, 2008

MITAS Announces 25-Inch Earthmover Tyre, Further Sizes to Follow

Reifen Presse, March 31, 2008

Czech Republic based manufacturer MITAS a.s. is expanding its Mitas brand earthmover radial range with the addition of a 25-inch size. The company reports that trial production of this new product is already underway, and serial production will commence in the second half of the year. Read More»

Earthmover and mining tyres available from Agora Tire

Ferret.com.au, March 19, 2008

Agora Tire supplies a wide range of earthmover tyres, mining tyres, and loader and dozer tyres. The earthmover tyres and mining tyres supplied by Agora Tire can be used for a variety of industrial applications. Agora Tire also distributes a range of customised tyres suitable for variable industrial and mining applications. The earthmover tyres supplied by Agora Tire have cut resistance, heat resistance, wear resistance and shock burst resistance capabilities. Agora Tire distributes large treaded tyres manufactured by Colorado suitable for heavy vehicle transportation applications. Read More»

OTR tyre manufacturer upping its production to cope with demand

Mining Weekly, March 14, 2008

To tackle the problem of global earthmoving equipment tyre shortages, the manufacturer of the first radial tyre, Michelin, is investing a large amount of money to increase its capacity to manufacture of-the-road (OTR) tyres. The company predicts that the demand for OTR tyres will continue until 2012.

The company is expanding its Lexington plant, in the US, and it opened a new plant in Campo Grande, Brazil, to increase its capacity for production of OTR tyres by 40%, by 2010.

The expansion of its Lexington plant was announced in 2005. The objective of this expansion is to increase the production of 51, 57 and 63 radial tyres for surface mining by 50% before the end of this year. This will lead to an increase of 12 900 t, compared with production for 2007. Read More»

Michelin Showcases First Tyre From Brazil OTR Facility

Reifen Presse, March 12, 2008

The official dedication of Michelin’s new OTR tyre facility in Campo Grande, Brazil, took place in February, and the company is displaying the first tyre produced at the plant, a Michelin XDT, at the 2008 ConExpo-CON/AGG show in Las Vegas between March 11 and 15. The tyre has been autographed by employees at the Campo Grande facility. Read More»

Goodyear to idle hundreds locally

CJOnline, March 6, 2008

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. will shut down its radial truck tire business in Topeka for six days during the Easter holiday because of lower demand from the trucking industry.

The radial truck tire business is experiencing a softening because of lower demand for original equipment semitrailer tires, economic softness, rising fuel costs and high raw material expenses, according to rubber tire and trucking experts.
Read More»

Egypt imposes dumping duty on Indian, Chinese tyres

Reuters India, March 8, 2008

CAIRO (Reuters) - The Egyptian government has imposed a dumping duty for the next five years on new bus and truck tyres imported of Indian or Chinese origin, the state news agency MENA said on Saturday.

Rachid said that within 12 or 18 months a joint Egyptian-Chinese industrial area west of Cairo would start producing all kinds of components for the vehicle industry

Rubber prices continue to soar

CommodityOnline, March 5, 2008

Natural rubber market is witnessing an upward movement now with fears of production fall and global price rise looming large.

According to market experts, rubber Futures opened firm on Wednesday on depleting stocks in warehouses. Read More»

Indian tire manufacturer enters OTR market

Modern Tire Dealer, March 5, 2008

Indian tire manufacturer Apollo Tyres Ltd. has begun construction on its first OTR tire plant, which will build 25-inch through 57-inch tires.

The factory -- which will be based in Limda, India -- is expected to be fully functional within the next 15 months. It will have an initial capacity of 10 tons a day and will increase to 60 tons a day within the next three years.

"We will begin production with the convenient cross-ply tires, which are used in India," says Onkar Kanwar, Apollo Tyres' chairman.

"Over the next two years, we will manufacture radial OTR tires, which are currently not produced in India."

Kanwar adds that "various earthmover equipment manufacturers have shown eagerness to get into agreements with us that allow them exclusive access to our OTR production."

Major European Tire Manufacturer Purchases Advanced ID Tire Products

Business Wire, February 28, 2008

DERBYSHIRE, England--Advanced ID Corporation, a leading developer of radio frequency identification ("RFID") technology for livestock tracking, pet recovery and supply chain applications focusing on the tire management industry, today announced that its Pneu-Logic Ltd. subsidiary has sold nine tire maintenance systems to a leading European-based original equipment manufacture ("OEM") of tires for passenger and commercial vehicles. The sales are part of an international test being conducted by the OEM on truck tires in Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom. In addition, Pneu-Logic has entered into Latin America through this test program with tire maintenance systems sales for use on commercial tires in Brazil. The European-based OEM also is a leading producer of commercial truck tires in Brazil.

The name of the OEM will be released upon successful completion of the three month trial toward the end of the first quarter of 2008, at which time a significant purchase order will be placed for a global launch of the product through the customer’s entire truck tire operations. Read More»

OTR offer TotalTyreLogic Service in Scotland

HUB, February 27, 2008

TotalTyreLogic, OTR's 'cradle to grave' earthmover tyre management system, is making a big impact in Scotland's quarrying industry.

Already in use in more than 30 quarries in Scotland, TotalTyreLogic is proving its worth with major quarrying groups, appreciating the 'total' service offered from OTR - from sourcing and supply of tyres through retreading to disposal and replacement. Read More»

Foundation Stone Laid for New Apollo OTR Plant

Tire Review Online, February 26, 2008

Rubber prices to remain firm

Business Standard, February 26, 2008

Caterpillar expands LHD supply with new assembly line in Brazil

IM International Mining, February 26, 2006

In its first assembly move out of Tasmania, Caterpillar has opened a new line of underground mining loaders in Brazil. In response to the continuing strong demand for mining equipment, Cat now is manufacturing the R1600G LHD in the long established Caterpillar facility in São Paulo State. The new line establishes a second source for Cat LHDs, which previously had been manufactured solely in Tasmania, Australia.

"The expanded manufacturing base will have a significant impact on the availability of new machines for our customers," said Chris Curfman, President of Caterpillar Global Mining. "This is an important step, too, in moving toward our goal of being the global leader in underground hard rock mining equipment. Read More»

Woman appointed boss of mining group

Evening Courier, February 18, 2008

Titan Tire Builds First Radial 63-inch Tire

Yahoo.com, February 15, 2008

Titan Tire Corporation of Bryan, a subsidiary of Titan International Inc., has produced the company’s first prototype giant radial 63-inch tire in its Ohio facility. Titan announced its commitment to produce these large radial tires, used in the mining industry, in May 2007. Read More»

CMA LLC responds to preliminary anti-dumping decision

Modern Tire Dealer, February 15, 2008

Last week's preliminary decision by the United States Department of Commerce (DOC) to impose antidumping duties on imports of new pneumatic OTR tires from China was quickly supported by both the United Steelworkers and Titan Tire Corp.

Last week's preliminary decision by the United States Department of Commerce (DOC) to impose antidumping duties on imports of new pneumatic OTR tires from China was quickly supported by both the United Steelworkers and Titan Tire Corp.

China Manufacturers Alliance LLC (CMA), the North American marketing arm of Double Coin Holdings Ltd., has a differing view of the decision. Here, in its entirety, is CMA's official response. Read More»

US workers group says antidumping duty on China tires a good step

Forbes.com, February 13, 2008

US labor group United Steelworkers (USW) welcomed a preliminary decision by the US Commerce Department to impose antidumping duties on imports of new pneumatic off-the-road (OTR) tires from China, saying it will 'help level the playing field'.

'The decision will help level the playing field for US workers by requiring Chinese tire imports to be priced fairly. This case shows the importance of vigorous enforcement of our trade laws as a first line of defense against unfair trade practices that harm American industries and jobs,' USW International president Leo Gerard said in a statement. Read More»

American Tire Corporation Enters Asian Market

PRWeb, February 13, 2008

American Tire Corporation (ATC) is pleased to announce that its Colorado brand OTR tires have entered into Asian market from the beginning of 2008.

Several containers of Colorado brand 35" and 49" OTR tires have been shipped for users in South Asia and Middle East. Dozen of containers of such tires and larger will be shipped to the same area in the first quarter of 2008. Read More»

Tyre makers want cut in rubber import duty

Reuters, February 12, 2008

Indian tyre makers want rubber import duty to be cut in the forthcoming budget to do away with an inverted duty structure under which rubber, a key raw material, attracts a higher duty than the finished product.

Tyre makers want the 20 percent duty on rubber imports to fall to 7.5 percent to prevent dumping of tyres from China and other countries, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA) said in a statement. Read More»

Burned In The Rubber Business!!

OTR Tire, February 11, 2008

In today's "Earthmover" or "OTR" tire market we are all aware of the lack of larger size tires. While there has been an increase in the availability in the smaller sizes we are still experience a major shortage in the Giant size i.e. the 3700R57, 4000R57, up to and including the 53/80R63 and 59/80R63.

This is very frustrating to the mines that need them and to us that need to locate them for our customers. Read More»

American Tire Corporation Decides Not to Increase OTR Tire Price

PR Web, February 10, 2008

February 10, 2008 -- American Tire Corporation (ATC) has decided to maintain its OTR tire prices at current levels while other US tire manufacturers have increased or are planning to increase their prices from the beginning of 2008.

ATC expresses its support of the announcement of the U.S. Department of Commerce that it will collect anti-dumping customs duties against Chinese OTR tires. ATC and all the US tire manufacturers will benefit from these measures. Read More»

Titan, Union Cheer Commerce Dumping Ruling

Tire Review, February 8, 2008

USW lauds preliminary decision to put antidumping duties on Chinese tires

Chesterton Tribune, February 7, 2008

The United Steelworkers (USW) is welcoming the U.S. Commerce Department’s preliminary decision to impose antidumping duties on new pneumatic off-the-road (OTR) tire imports from China.

“Today’s decision will help level the playing field for U.S. workers by requiring Chinese tire imports to be priced fairly,” USW International President Leo Gerard said in a statement released on Wednesday. “This case shows the importance of vigorous enforcement of our trade laws as a first line of defense against unfair trade practices that harm American industries and jobs. Read More»

Eastland Tire, LLC Enters Into OTR Tire Dealer Agreement With Titan International, Inc.

PR Newswire, February 5, 2008

Eastland Tire announced that the company entered into a dealer agreement with Titan International, Inc., in which Eastland Tire has secured a long-term source of Titan's off-the-road (OTR) tires including the new 57- and 63-inch giant mining radial tires that Titan is currently developing. Read More»

Bridgestone to Increase Tire Sales in Thailand Through New Acquisition

Azom.com, February 5, 2008

Bridgestone Corporation announced that Bridgestone Holdings (Thailand) Co., Ltd. ("BSHT") has agreed to acquire Shell Autoserv (Thailand) Co., Ltd. ("SAT") from Shell Group company on February 4th. BSHT was established through a joint capital investment of Thai Bridgestone Co., Ltd., the Thai subsidiary of Bridgestone, and a local Thai partner. SAT owns 64 "Shell Autoserv" stores in the capital city of Bangkok and in other locations throughout the country, which is an independent network and provides car maintenance service including tire and lubricant sales. Read More»

Rubber Exports Fall by 42%

Business Line, February 4, 2008

KOTTAYAM: A rise in the domestic prices of natural rubber has hit hard on India's rubber export which slumped by 42 per cent to 29,674 tons during April-January period of the current financial year as compared to 51,393 tons in the corresponding period a year ago, a senior Rubber Board official said. Read More»

American Tire Corporation Denies Involvement in Alpha Mining Systems' Trade Secret Case

PR Web, February 4, 2008

Chino, Calif. (PRWEB) February 4, 2008 -- American Tire Corporation (ATC) has denied any involvement or relationship with Alpha Mining Systems' trade secret case as reported in the article "Tire maker wins trade secret case" published in the Herald-Tribune, a Sarasota, Florida newspaper, on January 31, 2008.

According to this article, "Sam Vance, Alpha's sales and marketing manager at the time, was found guilty by 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Robert W. McDonald Jr. of giving a pair of overseas competitors everything they needed to steal business away from the Sarasota company." "Alpha Mining Systems, a global manufacturer of industrial mining tires, has won a $19.7 million judgment against a former employee for handing out the company's trade secrets in 2005." Read More»

Rubber Exports Gain Momentum

CommodityOnline, February 2, 2008

After a steady fall, natural rubber export is gathering momentum with the global prices ruling above the domestic rates.

According to a press note issued by the Rubber Board, the present situation is favourable for the export of natural rubber. Read More»

Tire maker wins trade secret case

Herald Tribune, January 31, 2008

Alpha Mining Systems, a global manufacturer of industrial mining tires, has won a $19.7 million judgment against a former employee for handing out the company's trade secrets in 2005.

Sam Vance, Alpha's sales and marketing manager at the time, was found guilty by 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Robert W. McDonald Jr. of giving a pair of overseas competitors everything they needed to steal business away from the Sarasota company.

"Alpha has suffered and continues to suffer irreparable damage as a result of defendant's misappropriation of Alpha's confidential, proprietary and trade secret information," McDonald wrote. Read More»

Facts Issue 2008: Bridgestone takes over in the U.S. and Canada

Modern Tire Dealer, January 29, 2008

For the first time, Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire LLC surpassed Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. in tire sales.

For the first time, Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire LLC surpassed Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. in tire sales.

In Modern Tire Dealer's 2008 Facts Issue, Bridgestone finished 2007 with $8.5 billion in tire sales in the United States and Canada. Goodyear finished second with $8.3 billion in sales. Michelin North America Inc. was third with $7.2 billion.

Rounding out the top 10 are Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. ($2.1 billion), Continental Tire North America Inc., Hankook Tire America Corp., Yokohama Tire Corp., Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas, Kumho Tire U.S.A. Inc. and Pirelli Tire North America Inc.

The 42nd annual January Facts Issue also contains information on retail and commercial brand share, average tire costs, tire plant capacities and much more. Check it out!

Bridgestone increases prices to cover rising energy costs

Tennessean.com, January 29, 2008

Rising oil prices have driven up the cost of making tires, forcing Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire LLC to raise tire prices as much as 8 percent beginning March 1, the Nashville-based company said Monday.

"The continued unprecedented upward spiral of energy and raw material costs makes this action necessary," said Asahiko "Duke" Nishiyama, the company's vice chairman and president. Read More»

Changing Paces

Tire Review Online, January 28, 2008

Kreitzman helped found the first version of China Manufacturers Alliance in 1998 as a partnership with a major Chinese tiremaker. In 2003, the company splintered, with the manufacturer-partner taking part of the business, and Kreitzman moving on to form what is now named API Inc. Read More»

OTR's TotalTyreLogic Goes Down Big In Scotland

Reifen Press, January 28, 2008

TotalTyreLogic, the cradle to grave earthmover tyre management system from OTR Tyres, is having a big impact on the quarrying industry in Scotland, where it is being used in more than 30 quarries. Read More»

Bridgestone to raise China tyre prices in March

Reuters, January 28, 2008

SHANGHAI, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Japan's top tyre maker, Bridgestone Corp (5108.T: Quote, Profile, Research), said on Monday it will raise prices in China by up to 5 percent beginning in March due to higher raw material prices. Read More»

An empire from a tub of goo

Globeandmail.com, January 26, 2008

How did the quest to retrieve the treasure hidden beneath huge swaths of northern Alberta go from fool's errand to monumentous payoff? Erin Anderssen, Shawn McCarthy and Eric Reguly explain. Read More»

China fires back in dumping case

RubberNews.com, January 22, 2008

BEIJING -- The U.S. Commerce Department was unfair and discriminatory against Chinese off-the-road tire manufacturers when it found that the Chinese government is subsidizing them, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce has declared. Read More»

Dunlop India Hopeful for Fresh OE Agreements

Reifen Press, January 21, 2008

Dunlop India is reported to be seeking fresh OE deals. According to the Times of India, the Ruia Group company has entered into talks with India’s largest commercial vehicle maker, Tata Motors, regarding a truck tyre deal. Company chairman Pawan Ruia also stated that Dunlop India hopes to come to an arrangement with India’s Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML) for the supply of OTR tyres. The manufacturer of earthmoving and heavy industrial equipment recently signed an OE agreement with Apollo Tyres, for which the company is increasing its OTR tyre capacity from 10 to 60 tonnes per day.

Mr. Ruia added that Dunlop India is also in negotiations with Hindustan Copper and Coal India for the supply of OTR tyres.

For Terex, the Way to Go Is Up

The Wall Street Journal, January 20, 2008

With construction-equipment stocks now out of favor on Wall Street because of domestic economic concerns, some investors see an opportunity in Terex (TEX). Its shares have fallen 47% from their July peak, to $51. Read More»

Australian IT, January 18, 2008

RESOURCES giant Rio Tinto will replace humans with robots in its Western Australian mining operations over the next two years as it rolls out a fleet of automated vehicles including trucks, trains and drilling rigs. Read More»

RISING DEPRECIATION COSTS DEFLATE BRIDGESTONE'S STOCK PRICE

TradingMarkets.com, January 16, 2008

TOKYO, (AsiaPulse via COMTEX) -Growing depreciation costs are creating an extra challenge for Bridgestone Corp. (TSE:5108) at a time when the leading Japanese tyre maker is battling high raw material prices and a stronger yen. Read More»

Titan will raise price on tires

The Associated Press, January 16, 2008

Titan Tire Corp. said Wednesday higher costs has caused it to raise prices on Goodyear, Titan and General branded off-the-road, farm and construction tires, effective in March.

Prices will go up 7 percent and offset rising raw material, energy and transportation costs, said Titan Tire, which is a unit of vehicle-part manufacturer Titan International Inc.

Some prices may rise more than 7 percent due to realignment and positioning of product

A Second Life and Beyond

Equipment Today, January 14, 2008

If you've purchased a larger earthmover, or have had to replace the rubber on existing units, you've likely encountered some difficulty in getting the tires you need. There's still a tire shortage, and manufacturers expect the gap between supply and demand for large earthmoving tires to continue through 2009. Read More»

How will the Rubber and Tire Industry in Asia/China Face up to Price Hikes, CO2 Shock and Environmental Threats?

eMediaWire, January 11, 2008

Anticipated to be 'Asia's Most Awaited Rubber & Tire Conference'! CMT has brought together the best expertise and brightest brains to discuss and analyze the present and future dynamics in the rubber and tire world. Some of the other companies represented are Lanxess, Michelin, The Thai Rubber Association, Bekaert, South China/Wanli Tires, Pouchen Corporation, JK Tires and many more. Read More»

Bridgestone to invest in off the road tire plant in Illinois

RubberWorld, January 11, 2008

Bloomington, IL -- Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) is making a significant financial investment in its Bloomington, Ill., Off Road Tire plant that will allow the plant to produce new off road tire sizes and double the facility’s giant loader tire curing capacity. The investment will result in the addition of new jobs at the facility. Total capital expenditure is expected to be a minimum of $12 million over the next five years. The facility will also hire nearly 50 teammates in 2008. "As we have stated many times, we will continue to invest in our key facilities where there is stability, high productivity and an opportunity to make a reasonable return on investment,” said Shawn Rasey, Vice President, Bridgestone Firestone Off Road Tire Company, a division of BFNT. “The Bloomington plant is playing an important role in helping the company serve the needs of our customers who demand world-class heavy-duty tires."

Pirelli Now Producing Full Line-up in China

Tire Review Online, January 9, 2008

Bridgestone Plant Expansion

It's good economic news for the Twin Cities...Bridgestone Firestone is expanding its off-road tire plant here.

The company says the expansion will double the plant's giant loader tire curing capacity, and produce new sizes of off-road tires. It also expects to invest a minimum of $12 million over the next five years and add 50 jobs this year.

B-F executives made the announcement official at a Wednesday news conference. “As we have stated many times, we will continue to invest in our key facilities where there is stability, high productivity and an opportunity to make a reasonable return on investment," said Shawn Rasey, Vice President, Bridgestone Firestone Off Road Tire Company. "The Bloomington plant is playing an important role in helping the company serve the needs of our customers who demand world-class heavy-duty tires,” he said.

Titan Welcomes Affirmative Preliminary

PR-USA, December 27, 2007

Titan International Inc. welcomed the U.S. Department of Commerce’s decision this week to impose preliminary countervailing duties on new pneumatic off-the-road (OTR) tires from China benefiting from government subsidies. Read More»

Global tyre shortage threatens to stop mining industry in its tracks

The Independent, December 27, 2007

Times have never been better for the mining industry. Driven by insatiable demand from an industrialising China, the industry is awash in unprecedented billions. Yet the flip side of the boom is that every nook and cranny of the infrastructure, after years of under-investment, is groaning under the strain of the round-the-clock race to dig up everything from iron ore to coal to gold and diamonds destined for ports around the world. Read More»

Tyre Shortage Tires Out ME Projects

Tahani, December 27, 2007

The supply shortage in the off-the-road (OTR) tyre segment, which has already seen the price of a tyre that cost £15,000 (100,500) in 2005 increase by up to 300 per cent in 2007, is set to increase by a further 20 to 30 per cent by the end of H1 2008, reported Emirates Business 24/7.The cost and availability of Truck Bus Radial (TBR) and OTR tyres is the cause of much worry at mines and huge construction projects around the world, as there isn't enough collective rubber to keep the wheels moving. Read More»

Mongolia's mining regenerating

UB Post, December 27, 2007

Amongst Asian countries, Mongolia ranks as one of the richest in terms of volume and variety of undeveloped mineral resources. Although enormous potential exists in mineral resources, the economic viability of developing much of this natural wealth has not yet been demonstrated. The mining sector is of great importance for Mongolia’s economic stability and for the physical infrastructure, especially in the energy sector which is heavily dependent on coal. Mongolia has witnessed an increased interest in the mining sector, as well as in copper production. Read More»

Indian energy sector exhibits rich potential for investment in diverse streams: CII - KPMG

IndiaInfoline, December 26, 2007

The Indian energy sector is exhibiting a rich potential for investment in diverse streams, driven by the surging economy and the resultant demand supply gap in the short run; and by the need to achieve sustainability and self-sufficiency in the long run. A long term vision, and adequate policy and regulatory support is necessary to realize this potential, according to a report jointly released by CII and KPMG. The report titled ‘India Energy Inc. – Emerging Opportunities & Challenges’ was released recently at the CII - India Energy Conclave 2007. Read More»

HALF BILLION DOLLAR INVESTMENT IN MINING INDUSTRY

Panorama, December 26, 2007

The year 2007 is one of the successful years with its indicator of 13.6 percent economic growth. The two digit growth reported in the course of recent seven year testifies that the reforms are effective and we have stable and dynamically developing economy. I am sure that we have real chances of two digit economic growth in the coming 4-5 years. This was said by President Robert Kocharyan while he described the passing economic year during his traditional meeting with more than 60 representatives of the business community at the close of the year. Read More»

Phikwe on the roll in 2007

Mmegi, December 21, 2007

SELEBI-PHIKWE: 2007 will go down as a largely successful year for Selebi-Phikwe as the mining town's economic fortunes took a turn for the better. Read More»

BHP/Rio deal would tighten uranium market-industry

Reuters UK, December 19, 2007

LONDON, Dec 19 (Reuters) - A formal bid by BHP Billiton (BHP.AX: Quote, Profile, Research) (BLT.L: Quote, Profile, Research) for smaller mining rival Rio Tinto (RIO.AX: Quote, Profile, Research) (RIO.L: Quote, Profile, Research) could tighten the uranium market due to uncertainty over supply, industry sources and analysts say. Read More»

Titan Issues 2007 Review, 2008 Outlook

Tire Review, December 19, 2007

Kumho plans domestic tire price increases up to 8%

Modern Tire Dealer, December 19, 2007

Kumho Tire U.S.A. Inc. will increase tire prices effective Feb. 1, 2008. Prices will increase up to 8%, depending on the tire line and model.

Kumho Tire U.S.A. Inc. will increase tire prices effective Feb. 1, 2008. Prices will increase up to 8%, depending on the tire line and model. Read More»

A look back (and forward) at the farm and OTR tire markets in Morry Taylor's own words

Modern Tire Dealer, December 19, 2007

Morry Taylor is chairman and CEO of Titan International Inc. By his account, Titan is headed for a successful "and eventful" year. Morry Taylor is chairman and CEO of Titan International Inc. By his account, Titan is headed for a successful "and eventful" year.

Net sales were up 23% through three quarters of fiscal 2007 ended Sept. 30 compared to the same period in 2006 (from $513.9 million to $632.1 million). Gross profit was up 3%. Net income, however, was down 89%, from $14.7 million in 2006 to $1.6 million. Read More»

Bottlenecks Slow Australian Coal

Energy Tribune, December 19, 2007

Australia's coal exporters are enjoying strong demand, but infrastructure bottlenecks are - at least for the moment-constraining their ability to grow their overseas shipments. Read More»

Goodyear’s Gingo Retires, Takes Post With Schulman

Tire Review, December 19, 2007

Rio will put US$1.1 billion into Australian coal and US nickel/copper mines

Mineweb, December 17, 2007

Rio Tinto will invest $1.1 billion in expanding mines in Australia and the United States, hoping to fight off BHP Billiton's takeover offer through internal growth. Read More»

Rio Continues Growth Plan With New Investments

Mining Technology, December 17, 2007

Rio Tinto today announced major project investments in Australia and overseas aimed at growing the company already under takeover speculation. Read More»

Tokyo rubber hits 5-week high

CommodityOnline, December 17, 2007

Tokyo rubber futures rose on Monday to extend gains and touched a five-week high as a soft yen encouraged buying.

The key TOCOM rubber futures contract for May 2008 delivery on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange traded at 296yen per kg by 09:08 IST, up 1.9 yen from Friday's close. It rose as high as 297.2 yen, the highest since Nov 12. Read More»

U.S. Adds Duties to China-Made OTR Tires

Tire Review, December 12, 2007

The U.S. Department of Commerce has opted to impose countervailing duties – at least initially – on new OTR tires imported from China, saying the makers of those products benefited financially from Chinese government subsidies. Read More»

Made in China and showing at the NEC

Organisers of the Commercial Vehicle Show are delighted that Shanghai-based GiTi Tire will be exhibiting for the first time at next year’s Show and, according to GiTi representatives, the company will be investing a ‘significant amount’ in publicising the company’s ever-increasing range of truck and bus tyres. GiTi’s 54 square metre stand (Hall 8 -141) will be designed to raise the profile of the GiTi brand and product range. Read More»

Research points to greater recycling potential of tyre retreads

Letsrecycle.com, November 27, 2007

The Waste and Resources Action Programme has found that up to 40% of the re-treads needed in truck and earthmover tyres could be provided from recycled material without reducing durability or performance. Read More»

Kumho Eyes Automated Plant for U.S.

Tire Review, November 27, 2007

Kumho Tire Co. will likely build a new tire plant in the U.S., and hopes to announce its location by the end of this year.

Dr. Sae Chul Oh, Kumho’s president, revealed the plans at the recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Read More»

Ceat to finalise plans for truck radial plant by year end

Business Line, November 26, 2007

Ceat Ltd hopes to finalise its plans to set up a new truck-bus radial tyre plant by December-January. Construction of the proposed 60-tonne OTR (off-the-road) tyre factory near Patalganga is expected to begin by May next year. Read More»

MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA ANNOUNCES AGRICULTURAL AND COMMERCIAL TIRE PRICE INCREASES

Press Release, November 20, 2007

Michelin North America is increasing prices on some of its tire product lines.

Commercial truck tire prices will increase by up to 6 percent on Michelin® and BFGoodrich® brand replacement tires and up to 4 percent on MRT retreads sold in the United States effective Jan. 1, 2008. Read More»

Michelin Expects Raw Material Costs Will Ding Financials Next Year

Tire Review, November 19, 2007

Conti Hooks Up With Vietnam Tiremaker

Tire Review, November 19, 2007

Gold Fields seeks quality mines across the world

Mining Weekly, November 16, 2007

Gold Fields, the world's fourth-largest gold miner, is scouting for quality mines in many countries to lift its production profile, its chief executive officer said. Read More»

Gray market tires are hurting Canadian dealers, says association

Modern Tire Dealer, November 16, 2007

Think tire dealerships in Canada are getting rich due to the strong Canadian dollar? Think again, says the Tire Dealers Association of Canada. "In fact, the opposite is true," says TDAC President Eric Gilbert, partially due to the proliferation of gray market tires.

Think tire dealerships in Canada are getting rich due to the strong Canadian dollar? Think again, says the Tire Dealers Association of Canada (TDAC). "In fact, the opposite is true," says TDAC President Eric Gilbert, partially due to the proliferation of gray market tires Read More»

'Tired' of downtime?

For Construction Pros, November 15, 2007

On a recent visit to Bridgestone Firestone Off The Road (OTR) Tire Co. in Bloomington, IL, I was reminded of a serious problem facing the construction industry today and that is the shortage of tires. We've all heard over the past couple of years that demand for OTR tires has far outpaced supply, but I was not aware of the many things that consumers can do to alleviate the effects of the shortage on their individual operations. Read More»

The Old Lady Is Burning Rubber

Forbes, November 15, 2007

Michelin, the bloated 118-year-old French tire company, was in limbo after a respected heir died in a boating accident. Now it's on track again. Read More»

Yokohama to double OTR capacity by 2011

Rubber News, November 15, 2007

ONOMICHI, Japan -- Tire maker Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. is addressing overwhelming demand for mining and construction vehicle tires and the shortage of supply in the OTR market by more than doubling its capacity in the sector by 2011. Read More»

Chinese tire maker fights class action

Rubber News, November 15, 2007

CAMDEN, N.J. -- A Chinese tire maker is fighting a pending class action in a federal district court in Camden, arguing the court has no jurisdiction over it. Read More»

EU Requirements for Tyres Will Reduce Safety, Says Conti

Tire Review Online, November 14, 2007

Goodyear turns another corner

Rubber News, November 14, 2007

AKRON -- Goodyear´s plan to improve its cost structure, focus on higher-end tires and create a richer product mix to improve profits apparently is paying off. Read More»

Titan posts loss despite record sales

Rubber News, November 14, 2007

QUINCY, Ill. -- Despite record third-quarter and nine-month sales, Titan International Inc. reported a loss for the three-month period and a decline in earnings the three quarters. Read More»

Amerityre's run-flat polyurethane tire passes safety standard

Modern Tire Dealer, November 13, 2007

Amerityre Corp. reports its Arcus run-flat polyurethane elastomer tire has successfully completed all testing requirements under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 139. Read More»

Andean Women Use Gentle Touch to Conquer Monster Mining Trucks

Bloomberg.com, November 8, 2007

The macho world of South America's gold, silver and copper mines is under invasion by women.

The women come from remote communities in the Andes Mountains to work as monster-truck drivers. The jobs offer more income than they can earn in their villages and help mining companies preserve vehicles that cost about $3 million each. Read More»

BHP Billiton Offers to Buy Rio; Proposal Rejected

Bloomberg.com, November 8, 2007

BHP Billiton Ltd., the world's biggest mining company, plans to pursue a takeover of Rio Tinto Group after an earlier approach was rejected, in what may become the largest acquisition in history.

A purchase of Rio, which has a market value of $165 billion, would create a company that controls more than a third of the iron-ore market, supplies the most energy coal and copper, and owns mines and oilfields in six continents. Rio is the third-largest miner behind BHP and Anglo American Plc. Read More»

Bridgestone plans five-year capital investment program

Rubber News, November 8, 2007

TOKYO -- If Bridgestone Corp. wants to maintain its top spot globally as a tire and rubber product manufacturer, it figures it will need to spend a lot of money. Read More»

Quadra Mining Ltd. Announces Strong Third Quarter 2007 Financial Results

Market Wire, November 5, 2007

The global shortage of large off-road tires is being addressed by improvements in operating practices which are extending the useful life of all tires. The Company also entered into a tire supply agreement to help meet tire requirements for 2007-2009. While the shortage of tires continues, the situation seems to be moderating as additional production capacity and new producers come on line. Read More»

Bridgestone posts big gains in net income, sales through three quarters

Modern Tire Dealer, November 5, 2007

Bridgestone Corp. recorded net income of $713 million on net sales of $21.4 billion for the first three quarters of its 2007 fiscal year ended Sept. 30. Tire sales represented nearly 81%, or $17.3 billion.

Bridgestone Corp. recorded net income of $713 million on net sales of $21.4 billion for the first three quarters of its 2007 fiscal year ended Sept. 30. Tire sales represented nearly 81%, or $17.3 billion. Read More»

Titan posts third quarter sales gains

Modern Tire Dealer, November 5, 2007

Titan International Inc. achieved record sales of $195.5 million during the third quarter, a 25% increase over third quarter 2006 levels. Titan's gross profit also increased from $17.1 million in 3Q 2006 to $18.3 million in 3Q 2007.

Titan International Inc. achieved record sales of $195.5 million during the third quarter, a 25% increase over third quarter 2006 levels. Titan's gross profit also increased from $17.1 million in 3Q 2006 to $18.3 million in 3Q 2007. Read More»

Corporate America gets the jitters as oil nudges $100

The Economic Times, November 5, 2007

BOSTON: As oil heads toward $100 per barrel, Corporate America is scrambling to offset the cost by cutting back on energy use where it can and pushing through higher prices where it can’t. Higher oil prices drive up corporate expenses from running factories to making petroleum-based chemicals. Companies in energy-intensive industries such as mining have also warned that oil prices are eroding their profits. And they burn through consumers’ spendable income as it costs more to run cars, heat homes and to buy airline tickets. Read More»

Nova Scotia's Daily Business Briefs

Business Journal, November 5, 2007

Michelin Waterville recently commemorated its 25th year of manufacturing tires by producing its 25th millionth tire. Michelins Waterville facility, Michelins second largest truck tire plant, opened in 1982 and manufactures heavy-duty earthmover and large industrial tires. Headquartered in Laval, Quebec, Michelin North America (Canada) Inc. employs 3,700 people and operates three plants.  Read More»

Mining Director Predicts OTR Tyre Shortage Over in 2008

Reifen Press, November 2, 2007

According to global diamond mining giant De Beers, the shortage of large OTR tyres that has plagued mining operators in recent years will be over by the end of 2008. The South African publication Mining Weekly has reported De Beers director Debbie Farnaby as saying the success of Chinese manufacturers in the area of radial OTR tyre production will end the shortage sooner than previously anticipated. Read More»

Bryan celebrates economic gains

FW Daily News, November 2, 2007

Big things are happening in Bryan, Ohio. Really big things. Beginning next year, the aptly named Titan Tire Corp. will begin producing 57- and 63-inch-diameter tires at its Bryan plant for use in the mining industry.

The plant, built in 1967 and containing 500,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space, is undergoing a $100-million expansion that will add 220,000 square feet and 150 to 200 jobs to the company’s existing work force of 325 when completed. Read More»

SEMA Show, Day Two: Techking introduces three OTR tires

Modern Tire Dealer, November 1, 2007

Techking Tires Ltd., a China-based tire company, displayed three new large OTR tires on the Tire Industry Association Performance Tires & Wheels trade show. Read More»

Fording coal trust prospects hurt by weak US$; Q3 profit down 27 per cent

The Canadian Press, October 30, 2007

Elk Valley Coal has two million tons of inventory, including one million at West Coast ports, and "we are relying on a strong performance from our transportation service providers," he added.
He declined to release production guidance - "it's not radically different from what we're doing now" - but said capacity is ultimately limited by equipment availability factors, notably a long-running shortage of tires for monster dump trucks and other machinery.

Despite production increases by tire manufacturers, "I think it's tight over the next couple of years," Payne said, as "the demand for tires just keeps going up."Read More»

Goodyear swings to profit in third quarter, helped by sale of unit

International Herald Tribune, October 30, 2007

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., helped by the sale of its engineered products unit, swung to a big profit in the third quarter, even though North American tire sales were down 6 percent. Read More»

Tire Maker Stretches To Match Demand

Shanghai Daily, October 29, 2007

Continental AG announced it will invest 150 million euros (US$216 million) to build its first Chinese tire-making plant in Hefei, Anhui Province, to meet growing demand and to catch up with rivals like Japan's Bridgestone. Read More»

New RMA Chairman Outlines Plans

Tire Review, October 25, 2007

Kanowna Belle Up And Running After Fire

Mining Technology, October 25, 2007

Australian mine operator Barrick Gold Corporation has announced operations are up and running again after a fire trapped fifty four miners at its Kanowna Belle mine in Kalgoorlie yesterday.

The mine was temporarily shut following a fire in the engine cabin of a 755 caterpillar truck.

The fire was extinguished by an on-board fire suppression system.

All mine workers were bought to safety yesterday with no reported injuries.

Canada sees 80,000 Job Vacancies In Mining Sector

Reuters Canada, October 24, 2007

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada's rich mining industry is expected to face a shortage of 80,000 workers over the next decade, Human Resources Minister Monte Solberg said on Wednesday.

"We know that having enough skilled workers is a serious problem," Solberg said in the prepared text of a speech he was giving to a mining human resources forum.

He said 400,000 Canadians currently have jobs because of the mining sector, which contributes C$40 billion ($41 billion) a year to the economy.

One solution he broached is to help displaced forestry workers transition into the mining industry. Another idea is to make it easier for workers qualified in one province to be able to shift another. And he pushed the idea of hiring more aboriginals, who face a 19 percent jobless rate.

Zambia: 'Seek Economic Freedom'

AllAfrica.com, October 24, 2007

PRESIDENT Mwanawasa has challenged Zambians to focus their efforts on economic independence and jealously guard the peace the country is enjoying as Zambia celebrates its independence. Read More»

Tire Technology Expo 2008 to be Largest Ever

Tire Review Online, October 24, 2007

(Staffordshire, U.K./Tyres & Accessories) The organisers of the Tire Technology Expo 2008 are confident that next year’s show will be the largest yet and boast its best ever conference programme and speaker line-up. Read More»

CMA to Open First N.A. Warehouse

Tire Review Online, October 24, 2007

Commodity prices are sliding

FXStreet.com, October 23, 2007

On Monday the oil price fell towards USD 86, after renewed concern over economic slowdown in the US had given the financial markets a sharp rap over the knuckles. Dollar appreciation and the contract roll also had a negative effect. The expiry of the November contract and the switch to December delivery alone shaved USD 1.5 off the US WTI reference contract. For the short term we are of the opinion that the price has peaked for the time being. We maintain our neutral position, but risk-tolerant investors may choose to utilise the potential towards USD 83.50. The announcement of US inventories tomorrow will show the direction for the short term (see box) Read More»

Bridgestone will build more large OTR tires in Japan

Modern Tire Dealer, October 22, 2007

Bridgestone Corp. is investing 32 billion yen in the expansion of its large OTR plant in Kitakyushu, Japan, and to increase capacity at its OTR steel cord plant in Saga, Japan.

Demand for large OTR tires "has been expanding significantly worldwide in step with increasing global production of mineral resources," say Bridgestone officials. "Moving ahead, demand is expected to remain at a high level."

Bridgestone says it plans to increase production capacity "in a stepwise manner. Expansion work will get underway in the second half of 2008, with production scheduled to begin in the second half of 2010.

"As a result, production capacity is projected to increase by around 50 tons of new rubber a day by the end of 2012, which will be up roughly 20% from the time the current expansion work is complete."

Botswana: Jwaneng Mine - Our Cash Cow

allAfrica.com, October 22, 2007

It is not often that we reflect at some of the industries that are billion dollar spinners fort our economy.

One of those industries is the Jwaneng mine, the world's largest gemstone producer. Jwaneng Mine is simply known as the richest diamond mine in the world by value.

When it celebrated silver jubilee, or 25th anniversary last week, the Jwaneng Mine was celebrating more than just 25 years of mining diamonds. This mine is literally Botswana's number one cash cow. Read More»

Grand opening of OTR tire plant is part of Yokohama's 'Grand Design'

Modern Tire Dealer, October 21, 2007

The grand opening of Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd.'s second OTR plant was held today in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan.

Toru Kobayashi, director and corporate officer of Yokohama Rubber, said the company plans a further increase in production capacity at the Onomichi plant to 1,650 rubber tons per month by October 2008. Construction of the new plant began in February 2006. Read More»

Rio Alcan Bid Wins Canadian Approval

Mining Technology, October 18, 2007

Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto has won Canadian regulatory approval for its A$42.84bn takeover of Canadian aluminum producer Alcan.

The approval follows go-ahead by EU competition regulators at the start of this month.

The sale will transform Rio Tinto into the world's largest producer of aluminum.

Michelin Produces 100 Millionth Tyre in Bridgewater, Canada

Reifen Press, October 18, 2007

The Michelin North America plant in Bridgewater, Canada has turned out its 100 millionth tyre. The production of this milestone item, a LTX A/T2 truck tyre, was marked by staff and management at the facility in Nova Scotia, and plant manager Dana LeBlanc referred to it as “an important event for everyone here at Michelin in Bridgewater.” Read More»

Apollo Turnover to Double in 3 Years - Kanwar

Tire Review Online, October 15, 2007

The Long Case for Goodyear Tire & Rubber

Seeking Alpha, October 15, 2007

In a recent edition of Value Investor Insight, GoldenTree Asset Management's Adam Tuckman described why he sees big upside in The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (GT). Read More»

Oilsands' newest project: a greener image

Edmonton Journal, October 14, 2007

EDMONTON - In just a few weeks Syncrude could begin grinding down one of the environmental millstones that the oilsands industry has dragged around for years. Read More»

American Tire Corporation Launches New OTR Sizes

Tire Review Online, October 12, 2007

(Akron/Tire Review) American Tire Corporation (ATC) announced that the following new Colorado OTR sizes have been launched after six-month full production of Colorado 53/80-63 tires: the 59/80-63 E4 88PR, the 31/90-49 E4 54PR and the 41.25/70-39 L5 42PR. Read More»

Cat's new large mining trucks put to the test

Construction & Maintenance, October 12, 2007

Caterpillar announced that it will upgrade all mechanical drive mining trucks—785C, 789C, 793D and 797B. Additionally, Cat announced that it will offer two AC electric drive truck models of more than 200 short tons capacity. Read More»

Agora Tire creates OTR tire pricing index

Modern Tire Dealer, October 11, 2007

Agora Tire Inc. has added a price index for OTR tires to its Web site. According to President Brad Harris, the company is just taking a cue from other industries such as metals and plastic resin that have made commodity pricing available in order to establish a benchmark for fair pricing. Read More»

Three Thousand Miners Trapped in South African Mine

Mining Technology, October 4, 2007

Rescuers working to save 3,200 trapped miners in a South African gold mine have so far brought 1,350 miners to the surface, officials have announced. Read More»

Dunlop may re-enter aero tyre domain

The Times of India, October 4, 2007

MYSORE: Pawan Kumar Ruia is planning to extend Dunlop brand for aero tyres and off-the-road tyres (OTR) manufactured by Falcon Tyres Ltd. Read More»

China Manufacturers Alliance Sets Up in Memphis

The Daily News, October 3, 2007

Memphis is often lauded for being a cultural and commercial crossroads.

It's a place where various forms of music - country, western, blues and gospel - converged in the 1950s to bring rock 'n' roll to the world. Read More»

Tiremaker Prices Heading Up Again

Tire Review Online, October 2, 2007

Michelin, Toyo, Yokohama and Bandag all announced price increases that will take effect with the new year, all driven by spiraling oil, energy, freight and benefit costs.

Toyo Tire (USA) Corp. said it would increase prices on all of its passenger and light truck/SUV tires by up to 8%, effective Jan. 1, 2006. No pricing announcement was made regarding Toyo’s commercial tires. Read More»

Tokyo rubber jumps on yen, solid physical prices

Reuters UK, October 2, 2007

TOKYO, Oct 2 (Reuters) - Tokyo rubber futures rebounded more than 1 percent on Tuesday on short-covering to reflect falls in the yen against the dollar, with concerns over tight supplies in the physical market providing solid support. Read More»

Thanks a billion: Michelin plans growth in U.S. and Mexico over next 7 years

Global Tire News, October 2, 2007

GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Michelin North America Inc. plans to spend more than $1 billion to expand production capacity in the U.S. and Mexico over the next seven years, including a new plant and upgrades at several facilities.

The tire maker announced Aug. 13 it will build a passenger and light truck tire factory in Mexico to support growing demand in North America. The plant will manufacture Michelin-brand products, including sport-utility vehicle and high performance tires, the company said. Read More»

ATC Ups Its Warranty Program

Tire Review Online, October 1, 2007

Yokohama goes green in big way

Global Tire News, October 2007

AKRON -- Green isn´t Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd.´s corporate color, but the company is taking on a decidedly green hue thanks to the efforts of President Tadanobu Nagumo, who has made ecological issues a cornerstone of the firm´s corporate strategy. Read More»

Rising costs still weigh on gold miners at forum

Reuters Africa, September 29, 2007

DENVER (Reuters) - At last year's Denver Gold Forum, global gold mining executives grappled with skyrocketing costs and sagging stock prices as they presented their corporate pictures to analysts and fund managers. Read More»

Michelin plantation an oasis in sea of poverty

Print Edition, September 27, 2007

ITUBERA, BRAZIL -- It may have taken three planes, a bouncy bus ride and about 18 hours of travel time to get to Itubera, Brazil, but it took only about two minutes of staring into the mouth of a thundering waterfall at Michelin's rubber plantation in the Atlantic rain forest to realize that this place was much more than a rubber factory. Read More»

Shanghai Tyre and Rubber Group Co. Changes Name to Double Coin Holdings, Ltd

Business Wire, September 27, 2007

MONROVIA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--China Manufacturers Alliance, LLC (CMA) is formally announcing that its parent company, Shanghai Tyre and Rubber (Group) Co., Ltd (STRC) has changed its corporate holding company’s name to Double Coin Holdings, Ltd., to consolidate corporate identity behind the company’s most recognizable and valuable asset, the Double Coin brand. Double Coin Holdings, Ltd is the holding corporation for several tire related business units including CMA. Read More»

Titan will raise prices up to 5%

Modern Tire Dealer, September 27, 2007

Titan Tire Corp., a subsidiary of Titan International Inc., will raise the prices of its Titan and Goodyear brand farm and construction tires up to 5%, effective Nov. 1.

"Certain tire prices may rise in excess of 5% due to repositioning of the product," say Titan officials.

Retreads Perform as well as New Tires

Azom.com, September 27, 2007

Old timers in the trucking industry were quick to tell you about the problems they had with “them recaps” back in the seventies and eighties. “Ain’t worth the trouble they cause,” they would say. Read More»

Top gear for Caterpillar

Mining Magazine, September 26, 2007

FOLLOWING plans first announced in March 2006, Caterpillar has officially updated the market on the development of a new series of mechanical-drive mining trucks and a new line of AC electric-drive trucks. The company plans to upgrade all of its mechanical-drive mining trucks – the 785C, 789C, 793D and 797B – with new variants. Additionally, the company is to offer two AC electric-drive truck models of more than 200 short tons capacity. Read More»

BFS Increasing U.S., Canada Prices

Tire Review Online, September 24, 2007

Cheap Chinese Imports Worry Tyremakers

Tire Review Online, September 24, 2007

Tiremaker emphasizes Double Coin brand in China and North America

Modern Tire Dealer, September 18, 2007

As part of a company-wide brand awareness strategy, Shanghai Tyre and Rubber Co. has changed its name to Double Coin Holdings Ltd. Read More»

Michelin Wins Frost & Sullivan Consumer Choice Award

Tire Review Online, September 18, 2007

When Wheels Are the Better Fit

Equipment Today, September 17, 2007

In the 1950s when the first hydraulic excavators were introduced, the machines were all equipped with rubber-tire undercarriages. Such configurations continue to be highly popular in Europe today. Read More»

Toyo Names Nick Manning as U.K. Marketing Manager

Tire Review, September 17, 2007