Global Tyre Price Increases Continue Across TBR & OTR Segments
The global tyre industry continues to face mounting pricing pressure in May 2026, with manufacturers across the TBR and OTR sectors implementing additional price increases due to rising raw material costs, elevated oil prices, and ongoing logistics disruptions. Industry analysts note that heavy-duty tyre categories are among the most affected segments globally.
Price Increase by Numbers
- Industry-wide notices: Nearly 70 tyre manufacturers issued more than 80 price increase announcements globally during Q1 and Q2 2026.
- TBR & OTR adjustments: Average tyre prices increased approximately 2–5%, while selected premium and specialty products rose up to 8–10%.
- Carbon black costs: Prices surged by 20–25%, significantly impacting manufacturing expenses.
- Synthetic rubber: Costs increased nearly 35–40% due to higher crude oil prices.
- Natural rubber: Prices remain elevated by approximately 10–20% year-on-year.
Key Cost Drivers
- Crude oil volatility: Rising oil prices continue affecting petrochemical-based tyre components.
- Energy expenses: Increased electricity, fuel, and gas costs impacting production facilities worldwide.
- Freight & logistics: Global shipping disruptions and container shortages increasing transportation costs.
- Supply chain pressure: Delays in raw material sourcing affecting production schedules.
Impact on Fleets & Dealers
- Fleet operating costs: Transportation, mining, and construction sectors face higher tyre replacement expenses.
- Dealer margin pressure: Distributors balancing rising procurement costs with competitive market pricing.
- Retreading growth: Increased demand for TBR retreading solutions as fleets seek cost savings.
- Lifecycle focus: Operators prioritizing durability and total cost per kilometer/hour over initial purchase price.
Industry Response
- Production efficiency: Manufacturers investing in automation and smart manufacturing systems.
- Sustainable materials: Greater use of recycled and alternative materials to reduce dependency on volatile raw materials.
- Advanced compounds: Development of longer-lasting tread designs and fuel-efficient tyre technologies.
Market Outlook
Industry analysts expect pricing pressure to continue throughout 2026 if raw material and energy costs remain elevated. The market is likely to see further focus on retreading, durability, and smart tyre technologies as fleets aim to reduce operational expenses amid ongoing economic uncertainty.