EU Replacement Tire Demand Strengthens in Second Quarter

The demand for replacement tires in the EU has strengthened in the second quarter of 2026, with all segments except farm tires registering year-on-year growth. According to Tyres Europe, demand for consumer tires rose by 3% year-on-year in the second quarter to 51.978 million units, with all-season tires leading the market with a 15% increase. Summer tires slipped 2% year-on-year, while winter tires edged down 1% in the quarter. Demand for truck and bus tires rose 13% year-on-year to 2.704 million units, driven by freight activity and business sentiment. Agricultural tires continued to decline, posting a 7% fall to 90 million units, while moto and scooter tires saw a 1% year-on-year increase in demand to 2.599 million units. The growth in demand is attributed to various factors, including a rebound in imports and a slower pace of decline in agricultural tires. However, miles travelled declined in the quarter due to higher average fuel prices and weaker consumer sentiment caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.