The Asia Pacific Carbon Black Conference 2024 – Perspectives in Asia Pacific, one of the largest and most acknowledged global carbon black industry events, unfolded in Kolkata, India, marking a historic moment for the city. The 15th edition welcomed a record-breaking 252 delegates and featured compelling discussions on the future of the carbon black market, which is projected to reach USD 30.15 billion by 2029. Over three days, industry leaders explored key trends, sustainability efforts and technological innovations, underscoring the sector’s dynamic evolution and the growing importance of India in shaping its future.

The sprawling banquet of a renowned hotel in the City of Joy was attuned to the murmuring of delegates from across the globe when the speaker on the dais invited the International Advisory Committee Chairman Amit Choudhary to address the crowd. With utter excitement, the chairman ascended the stage and opened the 15th Asia Pacific Carbon Black Conference doors to the curious assembly. Over the next three days, the event featured – workshops, intriguing sessions and panel discussions on the global carbon black market, which is slated to reach USD 30.15 Billion by 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence.

From sessions on the latest trends within the space to the use of recovered carbon black and sustainability issues, the conference was a boiling cauldron of information, coupled with an exhibition spanning different makers and associated suppliers to the industry.

Speaking to Tyre Trends exclusively, Choudhary said, “Key takeaways from the conference were impactful for both participants and delegates, with a record-breaking 252 attendees from around the globe. The exhibition, featuring 36 stalls, marked the largest in the Asia-Pacific region in the event’s 31-year history. The conference kicked off with two workshops on day one, focusing on the technical aspects of carbon black and its applications across the tyre and other industries. About 70 attendees engaged in a robust discussion, addressing numerous technical queries from leading players in the carbon black industry, including Birla Carbon, Tokai Carbon, Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, Epsilon, PCBL, and so on.”

He added, “For the first time in its history, the conference featured panel discussions on different topics of the carbon black industry covering marketing, raw materials, application, technology and the future of carbon black, which fostered intense engagement from participants. These sessions provided valuable insights and sparked in-depth discussions, impacting all those who attended.”

Many companies attending the conference were not direct carbon black producers but played key roles in the carbon value chain, either as suppliers to the carbon black industry or as technological collaborators or customers. This diverse representation highlighted the industry’s interconnected nature, with attendees gaining exposure to the latest technologies and processes shaping the sector.

“The conference brought together a global audience, fostering collaboration and providing significant opportunities for local suppliers to engage with emerging technologies. Carbon black production in this region, particularly in India, is experiencing rapid growth.

Companies across the country, from Gujarat and Maharashtra in the west to the east and south, are expanding their operations to meet increasing demand. This growth presents ample opportunities for suppliers of essential equipment and consumables to the carbon black industry, such as refractory manufacturers, bag suppliers and packing material providers. Ultimately, the entire supply chain stands to benefit from the increased collaboration and knowledge exchange fostered at the conference,” averred Choudhary.

Quick view

George Haines, Global Product Director and Avijit Sasmal, Chief Sustainability Officer at Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited, highlighted the carbon black industry’s progress in sustainability and circularity. They emphasised advancements such as the use of recycled pyrolysis oil and reclaimed carbon black and achievements like EcoVadis and ISCC+ certifications. Himadri already achieved the milestones and is maintaining Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) across plants. Innovations like LFP Cathode Active Material for EV batteries and renewable energy showcased Himadri’s future readiness. This session set a benchmark for aligning industry practices with global climate goals.

Senior Manager - Technology, K. Arun Kumar, and Manager, Technology and Business Development, Dr. P.M. Sivaram, at CUMI Super Refractories, discussed enhancing reactor life in the carbon black industry through condition monitoring and refractory solutions. They emphasised the need for failure analysis, material characterisation, and data-driven strategies to predict failures, improve productivity, and reduce downtime, ultimately leading to more efficient and sustainable operations in the industry.

The workshop by Himadri Speciality Chemicals Limited Plant Head Kingshuk Bose, on ‘Recent Advancements in Carbon Black Technologies’ provided an overview of carbon black, its applications, and recent technological innovations in its manufacturing processes. He discussed new technologies such as plasma and nanotechnology, which enhance production efficiency and product characteristics. Additionally, AI and machine learning were highlighted to optimise processes, improve quality and predict maintenance needs, ultimately advancing carbon black manufacturing and packaging strategies.

The former Chief Advisor of Research and Development at Apollo Tyres, P K Mohamed, an industry stalwart, addressed the future of the tyre industry, focusing on advancements in carbon black technology in his key note address. He noted that pneumatic tyres, essential for load support, require optimal structures to endure operational pressures. The industry faced megatrends such as mobility, digitisation, electrification, and the shift toward renewable materials. Key customer expectations centre on rolling resistance, traction, durability, and sustainability improvements. Enhancements in carbon black properties, including particle size and surface chemistry, are vital for achieving these goals. The industry’s evolution towards higher sigma levels indicated a commitment to quality and performance, necessitating collaborative efforts in research and development to meet future demands.

Notch Consulting Inc. Founder and President Paul Ita spoke on the outlook for 2024 and highlighted significant developments in the global carbon black and tyre industries. He noted a projected total investment of INR 27.3 billion in new tyre capacity from 2023 to 2028, with Asia, especially China and India, leading in new projects. He also discussed the impacts of EU sanctions on Russian carbon black imports. These sanctions are shifting trade flows, with India emerging as a key supplier to replace Russian volumes. The analysis included production capacity and utilisation trends with a forecast for growth in carbon black production despite current disruptions.

The AGM Strategy at Epsilon Carbon, Sagar Mathur, noted that geopolitical shifts, rapid urbanisation, climate change, sustainability, and technological advancements are shaping the future of the carbon black industry. Key trends included the growing demand for Electric Vehicle (EV) tyres, increased focus on circularity and recycling technologies, and the need for advanced speciality products. He highlighted that urbanisation is expected to strain resources while geopolitical conflicts are reshaping supply chains. The industry must adapt to these changes while addressing environmental concerns, leading to new product development, particularly in sustainable materials.

Vice President of Sales and Marketing (CBD), Kane Hanneke and Vice President of Business Development and Sales (CBD), Surge Klunder, at Himadri Specialty Chemical Ltd, focused on the current demand and supply dynamics of carbon black in North America and the European Union as of October 2024. In their presentations, they highlighted key economic indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, and the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), while discussing challenges faced by domestic producers, including import duties, geopolitical tensions, and rising oil costs. Kane also mentioned a notable production increase among leading carbon black producers, particularly in China and India, and addressed the impact of new tariffs on Mexican imports.

Executive Vice-President and Regional Head of Sales and Marketing at Birla Carbon, Shashank Awasthi, discussed the dynamics of the carbon black market in Asia and Europe with a focus on growth plans and regional capacities. He highlighted that China dominates the market with a capacity share of 47 percent and a demand share of 37 percent. He also covered competition in India, where local producers faced challenges from imports, particularly from China, Korea, and Russia. His analysis indicated a projected CAGR of 5 percent for the Southeast Asia carbon black market from 2022 to 2027, driven by rising disposable incomes. It increased automotive production, with Asia accounting for approximately 60 percent of global automobile manufacturing.

The presentation by Zircoa Managing Director Thomas Bohm focused on the role of zirconia refractories in enhancing reactor performance during carbon black production. Zirconia, a unique ceramic material, offers exceptional properties such as high thermal resistance, lower thermal conductivity, and erosion resistance, making it suitable for high-temperature applications in reactors. The advantages of zirconia include increased reactor efficiency, improved product yields, and the ability to withstand aggressive process gases. However, challenges such as degradation from thermal shock and alkali attacks were noted, emphasising the importance of proper alignment and operational practices to maximise the lifespan of zirconia linings.

In his virtual keynote session, Zhu Zilong, deputy director of design at Doright, discussed the emerging supply trends in equipment manufacturing, particularly focusing on the shift from individual equipment supply to comprehensive equipment packages.

The landmark event saw the attendance of dignitaries and industry stalwarts, including the Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal, Dr Manoj Pant, Himadri Speciality Managing Director Anurag Choudhary, Tokai Carbon President Hagime Hagasaka, Group Country Head, Aditya Birla Group Thailand, and Chief Expansion Officer Birla Carbon Asia, Sanjeev Sood, among others.

Key Speakers included Aditya Birla Group’s Chief Sustainability Officer Deeksha Vats, Former President at ALSTOM Power Energy Recovery CP Natarajan, Vidhitech Solutions Founder Vinod Taneja, ABG Trading President John Kennelly, Senior Manager Research and Development of Compound Development at CEAT Limited Dr Pranab Dey, Head - Projects Business at Thermax Limited Naveen Sadhu and Rathi Group Director Ravi Rathi among others.

The event was attended by delegates from leading carbon black producers, such as Thai Tokai Carbon Product Company Limited, Hyundai OCI, Aegean First Company, Zircoa Inc., Phillips Carbon Black Limited, CITGO Corp and others.

Curtain Call

Amit Choudhary commented about the conference, “Conferences like this serve as crucial platforms for advancing technological progress in the industry. They provide insights into global trends, revealing which players are exploring new technologies and how different governments are approaching industry expectations. These events create an opportunity for stakeholders to understand evolving needs as well as the requirements of end customers.”

He added, “For instance, during our recent conference, several customers presented compelling insights, with both in-person and online interactions offering a deeper understanding of the tyre industry’s future. The rise of EVs is a key development demanding a shift in tyre technology and manufacturing processes. Current tyres are general-purpose, but as EV adoption accelerates, specialised tyres will become necessary. In the near future, we will see the emergence of EV-specific tyres alongside innovations in related non-tyre markets.”

He also noted that India, with its significant market share, is poised for substantial growth. Established markets in the US and Europe are facing challenges with plant closures and shifting demands. The ongoing geopolitical landscape, including tensions in China and Russia, is influencing market dynamics. However, India remains in a favourable position for investment and is set to experience impressive growth in the sector.

Looking ahead, the next conference is set to take place in 2026.

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Bridgestone Corporation has announced significant changes to its senior leadership structure, set to take effect on 24 March 2026. The adjustments involve key positions and responsibilities among its Executive Officer and Vice President and Senior Officer ranks.

In a notable shift for its executive leadership, Scott Damon will transition from his current role as Executive Vice President and Executive Officer. In his new capacity, he will serve as Executive Officer and WEST CEO, while also taking on the role of BSAM NA Group President. This represents a change from the responsibilities previously announced in January.

The company also announced changes for two of its Vice President and Senior Officers. Agustin Pedroni is set to become the BSAM LA Group President, moving from his former position overseeing Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations in Latin America. Meanwhile, Craig Schneider has been appointed as the Group President of WEST Services and Retail Operations, in addition to his ongoing duties as WEST CSO (Chief Strategy Officer).

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In an era of heavier vehicles, rising torque loads and ever-larger wheel diameters, the tyre-wheel assembly (TWA) has quietly become one of the most critical systems influencing vehicle safety, durability and perceived quality. Yet for most consumers, it remains entirely invisible. According to Luc De Bruyne, OEM tyre-wheel assembly R&D specialist in the Department of Manufacturing and Innovation at Eurofit, that invisibility is precisely why the industry underestimates its importance.

Based in Zaventem, Belgium, the company operates as a high-precision service supplier for tyre–wheel assembly, focused on passenger cars and light trucks in the European market. It runs a network of 16 factories, supported by around 900 employees, and delivers a full set of assembly and logistics services. With an annual capacity of roughly 20 million tyre–wheel assemblies, production is supplied to more than 25 OEM locations across Europe.

From an OEM perspective, De Bruyne argues that tyre-wheel assembly can no longer be treated as a simple fitment task. “Due to the increase of load and power transmission of the cars, a correct seating of the tyre bead is more sensitive. The increased bead tension can result in a damaged tyre during mounting, which isn’t visible at the outside. A damaged bead can result in leakages and low-pressure during driving, which is a high risk of a safety issue during high-speed driving. In other words, what appears externally acceptable may already be compromised internally,” he explains.

This growing complexity is not adequately addressed by existing standards. While ETRTO, ISO, ASTM and JASO regulate individual components, there is no global standard governing the assembled wheel. In practice, this means quality depends heavily on internal OEM processes. As De Bruyne notes, “A TWA assembler must mount the components together with no damages to the product and the lowest level of risk of vibration on the car.” To achieve this, Eurofit and its partners develop internal process references with machine suppliers, such as mountability and integrity tests used to qualify new wheels. When a non-OK status is detected, suppliers are informed, and if no solution is found, components may be replaced entirely.

The business is structured as a longstanding 50:50 joint venture between Michelin and Continental, established in 1996. This partnership combines the technological depth, quality standards and global experience of two of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers. The JV structure underpins strong process discipline, continuous improvement and long-term stability for OEM customers.

The technical challenge intensifies as wheel sizes increase and tyre profiles become lower. Larger diameters bring not only harsher ride characteristics but also tighter tolerances across mounting, uniformity and balancing. De Bruyne outlines a suite of measures now required for high-performance wheels: checking rim run-out and match points to filter supplier deviations; guiding the tyre bead diagonally to reduce mounting forces; matching components to lower total uniformity (TU) levels; optimising bead seat geometry; measuring complete wheel run-out to achieve what he calls the ‘perfect circle’ and correcting balance through final audit controls linked to vehicle sensitivity. The payoff is clear – less vibration of a wheel results in a longer lifetime of the tyres and suspension system of the car.

The contrast between OEM-assembled wheels and typical aftermarket replacements remains stark. In Europe, De Bruyne identifies two aftermarket models. The first involves high-volume industrial assembly of wheel kits – often winter packages – using processes similar to OEM plants. “We recommend to order wheels from such entity to receive an upper grade quality level compared with the garage machine assemblers,” he says. The second model is the small local tyre shop, where limitations are far more pronounced. These workshops often use grade 2 or 3 tyres rather than the grade 1 tyres supplied to OEMs, apply grease-based lubricants forbidden in Tier 1 environments, rely on manual mounting without force control, inflate tyres without proper bead seat techniques and balance wheels on single machines without controlling clamping-device influence. “The manual mounting approach can result in a higher risk of vibration/sound level of the wheels to the car/driver/passenger,” De Bruyne warns. For OEMs, the objective is clear: the first test drive of a new car must feel fundamentally different from that of a used one.

Electrification has further raised the stakes. Higher torque loads and quieter powertrains mean that any wheel-induced vibration is far more noticeable. “Observation of increase of torque load on cars results in increase of tyre bead tension,” De Bruyne explains, along with higher surface roughness requirements on rim bead edges. Assembly processes now demand stricter control of mounting forces and higher-energy inflation using inflator bells. After inflation, micro bead correction is required to ensure full contact and maximise friction. Lubrication, meanwhile, must leave no residual grease, as this could allow bead slip under extreme acceleration or braking.

Eurofit’s position as an industrial service provider rather than a component manufacturer reflects broader shifts in vehicle production. A generation ago, car manufacturers assembled most parts themselves. “Due to the increase of complexity and need of assembling volume and faster cycle time of cars, a lot of key-assembling activities are outsourced,” De Bruyne says. This has freed space within vehicle plants, increased model variants and created demand for specialist know-how. Tier 1 component suppliers now deliver globally to wheel assembly plants located close to OEMs, enabling just-in-time supply with greater flexibility.

Logistics has evolved accordingly. Classic JIT lines are increasingly supplemented – or replaced – by batch production, sequencing centres and high-bay warehouses. De Bruyne describes specialised processes that keep wheels sequenced all the way to the OEM, including racks and trailers with walking-floor systems for direct unloading. Over the past 20 years, the explosion in variants has driven major upgrades in logistics software and product traceability. Such systems require constant monitoring and rapid deviation management to avoid production stoppages at the customer.

Despite all this, wheel assembly remains largely invisible to consumers – at least for now. De Bruyne believes this may change as EVs become dominant. With fewer vibration sources from engines and transmissions, wheel-induced disturbances move ‘on the horizon’, particularly as XL tyres and extreme sizes – up to 25 inches – enter production. Some manufacturers, he notes, are already upgrading assembly specifications in response to negative customer feedback on ride performance.

Replicating OEM-level quality outside factory environments remains difficult. OEM assemblers must meet manufacturer-specific specifications that are neither public nor economically viable for most aftermarket operations. While some garage-machine suppliers now offer optional TU, run-out and matching functions, De Bruyne is blunt: accuracy, repeatability and production speed remain poor, and costs are high. Where large aftermarket organisations adopt industrial processes for volume reasons, conditions may resemble OEMs, but ‘the difference is the respect of process limits’, which are typically broader and not tied to a single vehicle programme.

Balancing tolerances illustrate the point. OEM plants may work to residual imbalances as low as two grammes, while many workshops accept eight to 15 grammes. Whether a driver notices depends on vehicle sensitivity, but the physics are unforgiving. “Imbalance vibrations can increase very fast when the speed is going up due to the exponential behaviour,” De Bruyne notes. Lower residual imbalance always reduces TU vibration risk.

Automation is transforming the assembly line, yet human expertise remains central. Practical assembler knowledge is increasingly embedded into software, statistical process controls, cameras, sensors and AI systems. “The key-knowledge is the teacher of such equipment and less the production operator on the line,” De Bruyne observes, underscoring a shift from manual skill to process intelligence.

Convincing OEM decision-makers to invest in this hidden discipline relies on data. Carmakers increasingly use market feedback tools, such as J.D. Power studies, tracking performance from delivery through the first year of ownership. This feedback drives Tier 1 suppliers to adjust processes in pursuit of customer satisfaction. Internal rejections between OEMs and wheel assemblers can also trigger upgrades, particularly when Tier 2 suppliers across global plants struggle with consistency. “Over the last 30 years, numerous additional optional processes have been introduced in the wheel assembly industry. While tyre shops may be aware of these processes, the high cost of the required equipment has often made it difficult to turn them into a viable business model,” De Bruyne concludes.

For an industry obsessed with powertrains, software and styling, tyre-wheel assembly may remain out of sight – but, as De Bruyne makes clear, it is increasingly central to how a vehicle feels, performs, and ultimately, how a brand is judged.

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Nokian Tyres has achieved a significant global milestone as its new Romanian production facility becomes the first tyre factory in the world to be awarded LEED v4 Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This prestigious designation recognises the building's incorporation of extensive sustainable features, such as high energy efficiency, an advanced water management system and the use of on-site solar panels.

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) framework is the foremost global rating system for sustainable construction. Certified buildings are distinguished by their reduced energy and water consumption, lower carbon emissions, minimised landfill waste and the creation of healthier indoor spaces for occupants. This accolade adds to a history of environmental leadership for Nokian Tyres; its US facility was previously the world's first tyre factory to receive LEED v4 Silver certification, and its on-site solar panels fully power the Gold-certified administration building there.

Having commenced tyre deliveries in March 2025, the Romanian plant is also notable as the world’s first full-scale tyre factory to operate with zero CO2 emissions from its direct operations. Furthermore, the company’s broader commitment to sustainability was acknowledged in 2025 when it was named one of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies by TIME Magazine.

Teppo Huovila, Vice President – Quality and Sustainability, Nokian Tyres, said, “Sustainability is not only about the products we create; it is also about the spaces where we create them. Earning the LEED certification reflects our commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of our operations while providing healthier, safer and more energy‑efficient workplaces for our employees.”

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Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT Tires), already a dominant force in the Off-Highway Tyre (OHT) sector globally, has announced its strategic foray into India’s consumer tyre market. This significant expansion introduces the company’s On-Highway portfolio, marking a pivotal shift in its business trajectory. The initial product lineup is purpose-built for two-wheelers, encompassing both scooters and motorcycles, as well as Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV). This move underscores BKT’s long-term commitment to establishing a strong presence in India’s rapidly expanding consumer and replacement tyre segments. Accompanying the product launch is a new national brand campaign, ‘Elevate Your Drive’, fronted by brand ambassador Ranveer Singh, which heralds the beginning of the company’s journey as a consumer-facing brand.

To provide clarity for its evolving corporate structure, BKT has introduced a new brand architecture under its existing identity, ‘BKT – Growing Together’. This framework establishes two distinct verticals: BKT Tyres, which will encompass the company’s complete range from Off-Highway to the new On-Highway categories, and BKT Carbon, dedicated to its carbon black and industrial materials business. This dual-pillar approach reflects BKT’s transformation into a more integrated mobility enterprise.

The company’s entry into the consumer space is led by two new two-wheeler tyre lines, both manufactured in India. The BKT ZENOVA is engineered specifically for urban commuting, prioritising rider comfort, smooth handling and reliable grip. Complementing this is the BKT THYROS, designed for riders who encounter mixed terrain, offering enhanced control and confidence on both on-road and off-road surfaces. Developed with core consumer needs like comfort, safety and mileage in mind, the range has undergone rigorous validation. This includes design verification, durability trials and performance testing for braking and handling at the government’s NATRAX facility, ensuring they meet IATF 16949 standards and hold mandatory BIS certifications.

BKT’s expansion into the commercial on-road segment will follow with the introduction of its Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicle Radial (MHCVR) tyres, slated for launch in the first quarter of FY2026-27. The initial offering will include the BKT m.Loadxpert and BKT Milexpert RG, tyres developed for demanding applications like cement transport and regional cargo logistics. Engineered for high stability and robust casing strength, each tyre undergoes over 138 in-process quality checks and more than 20 design verification tests in NABL-accredited labs. By meeting all BIS standards, the range emphasises reliability, long service life and retreadability, bringing industrial-grade validation to the commercial road sector.

The go-to-market strategy involves a phased rollout through BKT’s nationwide distributor and dealer network, beginning with key high-demand markets. Reinforcing its consumer-first approach, the company will support the new portfolio with an advanced digital platform designed for efficient service response and transparent complaint tracking. This initiative aims to set new standards in customer engagement and service responsiveness within the Indian mobility sector.

Underpinning this strategic expansion is a substantial investment commitment of INR 35 billion (approximately USD 400 million). These funds are earmarked for expanding manufacturing capacity, advancing research and development, supporting vertical integration through the BKT Carbon business and widening the distribution network. This investment is central to the company’s Vision 2030, which targets a consolidated revenue of approximately INR 230 billion by FY30. This future revenue mix is projected to comprise about 70 percent from its core Off-Highway tyre business, 20 percent from the newly entered On-Highway categories and 10 percent from third-party carbon black sales.

Arvind Poddar, Chairman & Managing Director, BKT, said, “Our entry into the on-highway segment is a natural extension of BKT’s purpose – to support India’s evolving mobility needs with products engineered for real world conditions. We are building on decades of manufacturing discipline to offer tyres that deliver safety, reliability and value. Guided by BKT – Growing Together, we aim to be a dependable partner for consumers, distributors and dealers.”

Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director, BKT, said, “BKT’s foray into the on-highway tyre segment is a strategic milestone under our Vision 2030 – an India-led initiative to scale responsibly and expand our mobility footprint. Our approach balances ambition with discipline, where we aim to grow while protecting profitability and maintaining our engineering excellence. With a defined revenue roadmap of INR 23,000 crore (INR 230 billion) by 2030 – a 2.2x increase from FY25 levels, this measured growth, is built on clarity, capability and long-term commitment.”

Satish Sharma, Senior President and Director – Business Development and Strategy, BKT, said, “As we step into a new phase of growth, our focus remains unwavering on delivering durability, mileage, comfort and advanced performance across 2-Wheeler, Truck Bus Radial, Passenger and Light Truck categories, backed by deep customer insights and a commitment to product leadership. We are proud to pioneer industry first initiatives – whether it is pure distribution play ensuring wide reach with zero channel conflict, our ‘Journey Assistance Program’ for riders, or transformative programmes like ‘Save the Casing’ and market leading end user loyalty platforms. Our goal is clear – to achieve a five percent market share by FY30 through a disciplined, India-led strategy based on product leadership, distribution strength and consumer trust.”

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