Following on from the positive news relating to potential tariffs on the import of low-priced Chinese tyres into European markets, we took out time during The Tire Cologne to talk to BIPAVER General Secretary Tim van der Rijken and Technical Consultant Michael Schwämmlein. Both had noticed increased positivity in the market place since the news, but both the Federation of European Retreaders also warned about complacency and the need to keep up the energy in the ongoing fight to protect the interests of the retreading industry.
“Antidumping is not the only issue. Labelling is also important,” said van der Rijken. “We also need to get away from the price argument. In the meantime, the Chinese manufacturers are moving their factories in response to the ruling, so we can’t relax.”
“There are new proposals relating to labelling, covering parameters such as snow/ice grip and treadwear, but time is of the essence. We have stated that we want retreads to be included in this, but we need the appropriate method.
Meanwhile, BIPAVER says it is aiming for more info exchange between members in order to help member associations be more active and successful in local politics. Membership is also being extended to include tyre collectors. At the same time, BIPAVER is looking to attract individual company memberships in countries where there is no national representation, and is also in discussions with additional countries such as Turkey.
“The overall message we are trying to get across is that BIPAVER is the voice of the circular economy,” said van der Rijken.
During the annual BIPAVER meeting held in Cologne, a couple of changes were announced with Jukka Lankolainen replacing Patrick Sjolin as President of the Federation, whilst Tim Hercock was appointed at the new Vice-President.
