Tire industry prioritizes production, jobs despite mounting challenges
Iran's tire manufacturers are prioritizing the continuation of production and preservation of employment despite facing significant economic and logistical challenges, the spokesperson for the country's Tire Industry Trade Association said on Sunday.
Mostafa Tanha told state media that industry stakeholders remain committed to maintaining strategic production levels, particularly in the tire sector, which plays a vital role in the nation's logistics infrastructure.
"Although we are grappling with challenges such as securing raw materials from domestic petrochemical companies, obtaining foreign currency credits, international transportation, and the impact of the national currency's devaluation on production costs, our main priority is overcoming these obstacles and sustaining production," Tanha said.
He added that pricing mechanisms and navigating complex payment arrangements currently rank as secondary priorities, with all efforts focused on keeping production lines operational and preventing factory closures.
Tanha noted that the tire industry, which manufactures various types including passenger, truck and radial tires, plays a critical role in maintaining the country's transportation stability, and any disruption to the sector would have widespread repercussions.
"Supporting domestic producers and facilitating the supply of raw materials is essential for navigating this challenging period," he said.
Tanha referenced as difficult conditions stemming from a "US-Zionist imposed war," emphasizing that in this sensitive period, preserving and continuing the production cycle carries high importance.
The country remains under wartime conditions after a recent conflict, following a US-Iran ceasefire on April 8 brokered by Pakistan, though tensions remain high.
"We have deployed all our efforts to preserve employment and prevent workforce reductions," he said.
According to Tanha, despite economic pressures and sanctions, the rubber industry has adopted a strategic approach centered on maintaining production by relying on domestic capabilities to overcome the current phase.
He stressed that cooperation between the private sector and government remains crucial for ensuring uninterrupted operations across Iran's tire manufacturing facilities.