Smuggled Tyres ‘Don’t Impede’ Premium Tyre Sales

The market for smuggled car tyres in Pakistan, particularly in the city of Lahore, is said to be “considerably expanding,” according to local news reports. However, contrary to earlier news coverage, The International News reports that this business is not affecting sales of branded tyres. Instead sales of branded products are said to be “increasing at the same pace as that of smuggled tyres.

The smuggled tyres are being sold side by side with branded tyres in the biggest market in the city, the Bahadur Shah Market, near Urdu Bazaar. Here, dealers generally make 20 to 30 per cent profit on each smuggled tyre.

Earlier reports suggest that the “smuggled” tyres are sourced from India, China, and Dubai, putting locally produced brands at a disadvantage, according to The Post. One report suggested that the illegal business continues unchecked in the city, “perhaps in connivance with the law-enforcing agencies”.

At the time, Muhammad Asif Sheikh, a dealer of Dunlop Tyres said that Dunlop and Yokohama tyres have the highest price followed by the likes of Bridgestone, Pirelli, Lassa, Hankook, Kumho and Nexen. These are priced between 2,000 3,500 rupees per tyre (£24 – £45). The prices for 4×4 sizes are considerably higher, ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 rupees (£121 – £242). The so-called “smuggled” tyres however, which originate from such dubious sources that they could even be part worn tyres, cost as little as 1000 rupees (£12).