RMA: US Tyre Shipments to Decrease
(Akron/Tire Review) US tyre shipments this year are expected to decrease by 2.8 per cent compared to 2005, reflecting an overall slowdown in the US economy, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA). While GDP growth was 5.6 per cent in the first quarter, second-quarter growth slowed substantially to 2.5 per cent, said the RMA. “Slower growth and higher energy costs appear to be forcing consumers to prioritise spending including postponing tyre replacement,” the organization said.