The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA) has urged the government to impose an immediate ban on waste tyre imports, citing a more than fivefold increase since FY21 and growing environmental concerns. According to Ministry of Commerce data, imports of waste and scrap tyres have surged from 264,000 metric tonnes in FY21 to 1.398 million metric tonnes in FY24. In its pre-budget submission, ATMA Chairman Arnab Banerjee highlighted that the rising imports contradict India's Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Regulation on Waste Tyres, implemented in July 2022. The regulation is designed to ensure proper collection and disposal of end-of-life tyres, reducing environmental impact. With India producing over 200 million tyres annually, ATMA argues that the domestic industry already generates sufficient end-of-life tyres to meet recycling needs, making imports unnecessary. The influx of scrap tyres also raises safety concerns, as improper disposal can lead to fire hazards and environmental pollution. India's tyre industry has expanded significantly in the past decade, with manufacturers increasing capacity to cater to both domestic and export markets. The sector accounts for about 3% of global tyre production, with major players operating multiple manufacturing units across various states. ATMA, which represents India's leading tyre manufacturers, is advocating for stronger domestic recycling infrastructure instead of relying on imports. The association has previously collaborated with the government on industry regulations, quality control measures, and raw material policies. (Autocarpro)