Gori: China should lift import duties on EU tires

Essen, Germany – The EU should not impose duties on tire imports from China and instead push for the lifting of Chinese import duties on tires from Europe, according to Francesco Gori, strategy advisor at Apollo Tyres and former Pirelli leader.

The US imposition of anti-dumping duties has increased the flow of Chinese tires to other global markets regions. In Europe, truck tire makers and retreaders have been hit particularly hard by a subsequent rise in cut-priced imports.

During a panel discussion session at the Future Tire Conference 2016, 24-25 May in Essen, Gori was asked if the EU should follow the US lead and impose anti-dumping duties to stem the flow of cheap tires from China.

“No, or I would only do it from the point of view of reciprocity,” answered the industry veteran, pointing out that China currently imposes a minimum duty of 10 percent on tire imports from Europe.

Excluding tires being sold at “dumping prices”, Gori said that “if China is competitive they deserve to have their market share in Europe.

“But, I would discuss the fact that tires coming from Europe have to pay duty.

“We have no duties on tires imported from China. So why doesn’t [China] cancel this 10 percent duty? It would be a beau geste (nice gesture).”