Bekaert rubber reinforcement division reports declines in sales, earnings

Brussels – Bekaert SA’s rubber reinforcement division has reported stable margins and slightly higher volumes in 2025, despite weaker truck tire markets in Europe, tariffs and currency headwinds.

The division reported full year consolidate sales of €1.65 billion, down 4% from €1.72 billion in 2024, Bekaert announced 26 Feb.

Consolidated “third-party sales” declined 5.2% to €1,61 billion, reflecting a negative currency impact of 2.8% and the combined negative effect 2.7% of lower raw material costs and regional and product mix changes.

Volumes were broadly flat, up 0.2% year-on-year, with a stronger second half supported by activity in China.

In Europe and India, volumes were lower year-on-year, while North America saw demand increase in the second half after a weak start to the year due to tariffs.

Segment earnings (EBITDA) stood at €218 million, down from €233 million, with margins down at 13.2%, compared to 13.5% the year before.

During the year, Bekaert said one-off items totalled €40 million, mainly linked to restructuring costs in China and Europe, while “depreciation, amortisation and impairment” amounted to €76 million.

Capital expenditure reached €61 million and included additional equipment investments in India.

Bekaert said stable margins were supported by “sustained cost improvements in production plants and overheads combined with tactical capacity management.”

The division maintained “high levels of plant utilisation and efficiency improvements across the cost base,” said the Belgian group.

Looking ahead, Bekaert said global tire markets remain “subdued” at the start of 2026, particularly in Europe and North America.

Meanwhile, demand in China is “robust”, especially for electric vehicle tires across cars, trucks and buses.

The division, said Bekaert, will continue to focus on high-value tire segments, cost optimisation and key account management.