The 15th Asia Pacific Carbon Black Conference focused on the shifting dynamics of the tyre industry in the context of a rapidly evolving carbon black sector. This event brought together over 500 delegates from 20 countries to discuss innovations and challenges in the carbon black value chain, with a strong emphasis on tyre and automotive components manufacturing.
From advanced materials to recycled carbon solutions, experts explored the potential impact on industries like tyres, which are seeing increased demand due to the rise in electric vehicles. Participants highlighted India's potential to become a major player in global tyre production, particularly as traditional sources of carbon black, like Russia, face disruptions.
Dr Manoj Pant, Chief Secretary of West Bengal, stressed the importance of sustainable practices such as recycling and reusing materials, noting the industry's compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8%. Pant pointed out that the future of tyres would be closely linked to green practices, especially as electric vehicle components, including tyres, require materials with lower environmental impacts.
India's growing role in tyre manufacturing notes a $1 billion investment from the country as part of the global $27.3 billion forecasted for the tyre industry by 2028. Expanding exports to the European Union and North America were seen as a strategic move to fill the supply gap left by reduced Russian output, strengthening its position as a global hub for carbon black and tyre production.
The conference emphasised the increasing demand for sustainable tyres. Legacy ASTM blacks are no longer adequate, with the industry pivoting towards materials that lower the carbon footprint. India's ambition to source 50% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2030 reflects this trend, signalling changes in tyre designs to adapt to cleaner energy requirements.
The event also highlighted the Asia-Pacific region's importance in the global carbon black industry, valued at $28 billion and expected to reach $42 billion by 2032. The rise in vehicle production across Asia, closely linked to economic growth, drives this demand. Experts at the conference shared insights on sustainable finance, innovative technologies, and the future of the carbon black industry, underlining the need for balance between growth and sustainability.