Ill Wind Might Assist Rubber Industry

The fall out from the Firestone/Ford debacle may not only assist tyre manufacturers in increasing market share at the expense of Bridgestone Firestone, but the natural rubber market may see a boost in demand. An estimated 39,000 tonnes of natural rubber will be needed to replace the 13m tyres being recalled. Traders expect prices of natural rubber to start rising as production is increased to meet the sudden demand for replacement tyres.