ETRMA takes part in EU raw materials steering group

ERJ staff report (LMH)

Brussels – The European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association has participated in the inaugural meeting of the European Innovation Partnership (EIP) on raw materials high-level steering group .

ETRMA said it strongly supports the work of the EIP, as fair and sustainable access to raw materials, including natural rubber, is key to ensuring the competitiveness of European industry.

Patrick Lepercq, ETRMA president, summarised the association’s priorities at the 12 Feb meeting and said that “the European tire industry expects the EIP to encourage transparency,diversification of supply and capacity building of natural rubber to limit the current market distortions.”

The association called for the development of partnerships for foreign direct investment, through the creation of mechanisms that would allow for productivity increases and incite rubber production. It specifically called for increased cooperation with international organisations such as African Union.

ETRMA also requested that natural rubber be included in the list of critical raw materials and advised on the introduction of binding measures against raw material export restrictions in FTA and other trade agreement negotiations. It also said promotion of dialogue between consuming and producing countries in appropriate forums, such as the G20 and the International Rubber Study Group (IRSG) was important.

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Press release from European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association