Africa Tire Market – Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Vehicle Type (Passenger Car, Two-Wheelers, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV), Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV)), By Demand Category (OEM, Aftermarket), By Tire Construction Type (Radial, Bias), By Country, By Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview:

The Africa Tire Market was valued at USD 6.59 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 8.66 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.65% during the forecast period. The Africa tire market is witnessing a transformation fueled by structural changes in mobility, vehicle ownership patterns, and aftermarket expansion. Growth in the region's automotive sector, especially in passenger and commercial vehicle segments, is amplifying demand for replacement and OEM tires. For instance, South Africa's automotive industry saw a strong performance in March 2025, with domestic new vehicle sales reaching 49,493 units, a 12.5% increase from 43,989 units in March 2024. The new passenger car market surged by 25.3%, totaling 33,447 units, driven by robust consumer demand and favorable lending conditions. Export sales also saw significant growth, rising 31.1% to 39,477 vehicles compared to 30,123 in March 2024. Dealer sales made up 86.8% of total sales, while 7.3% went to vehicle rentals, 3.5% to government, and 2.5% to corporate fleets. Sales of light commercial vehicles dropped by 8.4%, totaling 13,328 units, while medium and heavy truck segments saw slight declines, with 696 medium commercial vehicles and 2,022 heavy trucks and buses sold, reflecting minimal changes from the previous year. As vehicle longevity improves and used vehicle imports continue, the replacement tire cycle has become a dominant factor. Parallel to this is the rising focus on localized tire assembly and reprocessing, which is stimulating new business models and creating domestic employment opportunities. Increasing investments in tire retail chains, roadside servicing points, and mobile fitment services are also playing a pivotal role in streamlining tire availability across urban and semi-urban markets.

Key trends reshaping the landscape include the uptake of digital platforms for tire purchases and price comparisons, along with the integration of smart technologies in tire products. Consumer preference is gradually shifting toward brands that offer value-added features such as fuel-efficient tread designs, longer mileage warranties, and temperature-resistant rubber compounds tailored for harsh terrains. Retreading and recycling have emerged as cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternatives, influencing the behavior of commercial fleet operators. Another visible trend is the gradual rise in regulatory frameworks focused on tire quality, import certification, and counterfeit prevention, which is expected to create a level playing field and drive up product reliability across market segments.

Despite growth prospects, several challenges continue to weigh on the sector. One critical hurdle is the widespread availability of substandard and second-hand tires, which undercut branded options and create safety concerns. Inconsistent infrastructure and poor road conditions also contribute to faster wear and tear, leading to shorter tire lifespans and affecting brand loyalty. Supply chain constraints such as port delays, import tariff volatility, and lack of regional manufacturing hubs limit access to premium products. Another major bottleneck is the limited consumer awareness regarding tire maintenance, load capacity, and optimal inflation, which restricts the adoption of advanced tire models. Overcoming these issues will require targeted awareness campaigns, policy support for local manufacturing, and investment in aftermarket education.

Market Drivers

Rising Vehicle Parc Expansion

The continuous increase in the number of vehicles on the road is a central growth driver in the Africa tire market. As vehicle ownership becomes more accessible through affordable used imports and credit-based vehicle financing, the vehicle parc steadily expands. This leads to greater demand for replacement tires, as older vehicles often require frequent maintenance, particularly tire changes due to usage and wear. The expansion in the vehicle base impacts both the passenger and commercial vehicle segments, encouraging retailers and service providers to widen their inventory across radial, bias, and tubeless categories. With more vehicles aging beyond their manufacturer’s tire life recommendations, periodic tire replacements become essential, generating recurring revenue for manufacturers and tire sellers.

The lifecycle of vehicles in Africa tends to be longer due to cost-conscious consumer behavior and limited access to brand-new vehicles, especially in remote areas. This results in extended use of vehicles with multiple tire change cycles throughout their lifespan. The increasing frequency of tire replacement, combined with an expanding aftermarket network, contributes to robust demand across both premium and budget tire segments. The growing fleet of two-wheelers and three-wheelers for short-distance commuting and delivery applications further augments the overall tire demand volume. The commercial segment, particularly freight and logistics, also plays a pivotal role in this expansion. As goods transportation and supply chains evolve, commercial fleets require consistent tire maintenance to ensure safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. Transport operators recognize tires as mission-critical assets and invest in replacement solutions regularly, thus stimulating bulk purchases. An indirect result of this vehicle parc growth is the rise of tire servicing and alignment shops across city centers and transport corridors, enhancing market accessibility. This expansion, coupled with increased consumer reliance on motorized transport, keeps the tire industry on an upward trajectory.

Growth in Budget Tire Segment

Affordability plays a major role in consumer decision-making in the Africa tire market, pushing budget tire brands into the spotlight. Low- to mid-income consumers prioritize cost-effective tire options that offer basic performance, safe drivability, and sufficient durability for daily use. Budget tire manufacturers recognize this price sensitivity and have adapted by offering economical options without sacrificing critical functional parameters like traction, rolling resistance, and wet grip. The ability of budget brands to replicate key performance attributes at a reduced price point has significantly altered consumer perception, narrowing the gap between premium and low-cost offerings. The market has become increasingly diversified with domestic and imported budget brands competing on factors such as warranty, mileage claims, and brand trust. These brands are gaining traction through retail penetration in auto markets and roadside tire hubs, becoming the preferred choice for a large section of motorists who prioritize short-term value over long-term brand loyalty. The entry of international manufacturers with budget-oriented sub-brands has further intensified the segment’s dynamism.

Widespread acceptance of these tires among small commercial fleet owners and taxi operators has pushed distributors and wholesalers to maintain high-volume inventory levels to meet recurring demand. Budget tire makers are also improving their distribution models, investing in direct-to-consumer channels, digital marketing, and customer feedback integration to enhance their competitive advantage. The increasing sophistication of budget tire manufacturing, backed by global supply chains and better rubber sourcing, is expected to sustain momentum in this segment. Price-performance parity, coupled with the sheer scale of potential customers, makes the budget tire segment a vital pillar of future growth in the African tire market.

Expansion of Aftermarket Service Networks

The rapid development of tire-related aftermarket service networks is creating stronger market pull for tire manufacturers and distributors. As consumers seek convenient access to tire fitting, balancing, and alignment services, tire companies are investing in dealership networks, service centers, and mobile servicing vans. This is especially impactful in areas where formal service infrastructure was previously sparse. The rise of franchise-based models and retail chains offering bundled tire services along with repair and maintenance has made tire ownership more accessible and efficient. These networks are also driving consumer loyalty. Repeat customers often return to trusted service points for tire replacements, fueling long-term demand. Furthermore, tire brands benefit from greater visibility and customer feedback, allowing them to tailor their offerings and marketing campaigns. Retailers who provide end-to-end solutions—including diagnostics, tire rotation, and maintenance reminders—elevate the tire-buying experience from a commodity transaction to a full-service engagement, enhancing brand retention and market maturity. The growth in these service channels also supports tire education, where consumers become more aware of tread depth, tire aging, inflation pressure, and alignment effects. As knowledge spreads, tire purchasing becomes more planned rather than reactive, contributing to more consistent year-round demand rather than seasonal spikes. These networks are also starting to digitize operations, with scheduling apps and inventory tools providing seamless engagement. This transformation in the aftermarket landscape underpins long-term market growth by raising tire visibility and accessibility across buyer segments.

Increasing Adoption of Retreaded Tires

Retreaded tires are gaining traction among cost-sensitive commercial vehicle owners seeking to optimize operational costs without compromising vehicle uptime. Retreading, the process of reusing the tire casing while applying new tread, has emerged as a viable and sustainable option in markets where tire replacement costs form a significant portion of vehicle maintenance budgets. Fleet operators in freight, transit, and construction sectors are prioritizing retreads to reduce their per-kilometer tire expenditure and maintain road readiness with minimal downtime. The availability of third-party retreading facilities, combined with standardized retreading materials and equipment, has helped improve the quality and reliability of these products. Many tire dealers are now offering pre-evaluated casings and retread packages, making the option more attractive to commercial buyers. Retread manufacturers are also focusing on compliance with safety standards, introducing warranties and performance guarantees that instill confidence among end-users. As environmental concerns rise, the circular economy appeal of retreads—reduced landfill, lower raw material use, and decreased carbon output—is also resonating with business buyers. Retreads are particularly effective for large fleets where tire turnover is high. The ability to reuse tire bodies two or three times can dramatically lower total cost of ownership. Logistics managers are integrating tire lifecycle management into their fleet maintenance programs, tracking retread cycles and performance outcomes. This data-driven approach improves retread adoption and helps estimate future tire requirements more precisely. As awareness improves and quality concerns are addressed, retreaded tires are poised to capture a significant share of the commercial tire segment.

Surge in Two-Wheeler and Last-Mile Delivery Fleets

Urbanization and the proliferation of last-mile delivery services are driving up two-wheeler and small vehicle usage, particularly among gig economy workers and logistics providers. These vehicles require high-frequency tire replacements due to continuous usage, variable road conditions, and lower load-bearing capacities. The two-wheeler segment—including motorcycles, scooters, and delivery bikes is a fast-moving vertical in the tire market, often requiring multiple tire changes annually. This surge in urban mobility solutions has led tire manufacturers to design products with better tread grip, puncture resistance, and quick heat dissipation, especially for city traffic environments. Fleet owners, such as courier and e-commerce delivery aggregators, prefer standardized tire models with predictable lifecycles, pushing sales for mass-market two-wheeler tire models. These high-velocity sales cycles benefit manufacturers through volume growth and long-term contracts. The rise in two-wheeler leasing and shared mobility models also increases institutional tire buyers’ presence. Companies often engage in bulk tire procurement and enter into service-level agreements with manufacturers or service providers, adding structure and predictability to the two-wheeler tire sub-market. As delivery timelines shrink and efficiency becomes critical, high tire performance becomes a competitive differentiator, further strengthening demand in this segment.

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Key Market Challenges

Proliferation of Counterfeit and Substandard Tires

One of the most persistent threats in the Africa tire market is the widespread availability of counterfeit and substandard tires. These products not only compromise road safety but also erode consumer trust in legitimate tire brands. Many unregulated imports bypass safety checks and offer tires at drastically low prices, making them attractive to price-conscious consumers. However, their poor construction often leads to faster deterioration, accidents, and reduced fuel efficiency. Legitimate tire manufacturers and distributors suffer as substandard products undercut their pricing. Brand dilution occurs when consumers mistakenly attribute poor performance to reputable companies due to counterfeit lookalikes. The lack of robust regulatory enforcement and the ease of entry for low-quality imports exacerbate this issue. Retailers looking to maximize profit margins may unknowingly stock counterfeit tires, further perpetuating the cycle. Combating this challenge requires collaborative efforts across stakeholders, including government agencies, industry associations, and certification bodies. Public education campaigns focused on tire safety, visible labeling standards, and digital tracking systems like QR codes or blockchain identifiers can improve transparency. In the absence of a secure and monitored distribution ecosystem, counterfeit tires will continue to undermine market integrity and stifle innovation in product quality.

High Dependence on Imported Tires

Africa’s tire market is heavily reliant on imported products, which exposes it to global supply chain disruptions, fluctuating foreign exchange rates, and shipping cost volatility. The limited number of local manufacturing facilities makes the continent vulnerable to import bottlenecks, particularly during high-demand seasons. Dependence on foreign suppliers also reduces control over pricing, quality assurance, and lead times. Manufacturers find it challenging to maintain inventory stability, especially when import documentation, customs clearance, and port logistics are subject to delays. This causes stockouts or oversupply, affecting both wholesalers and retailers. Sudden policy shifts in exporting countries or global crises can create ripple effects in pricing and product availability, hampering market planning and growth forecasts. Developing local manufacturing capabilities would help insulate the market from external shocks. However, establishing tire plants requires massive capital, specialized labor, and raw material access—factors that remain constrained in many regions. The lack of these local capacities forces tire companies to build pricing strategies around import cycles, limiting their competitiveness in price-sensitive market segments.

Limited Access to Tire Financing Options

Purchasing new tires, especially premium or commercial-grade variants, often represents a sizable upfront cost for consumers and small fleet operators. The absence of tailored financing options for tire purchases results in deferred replacements, continued use of worn-out tires, or migration toward cheaper substandard alternatives. This not only affects safety and performance but also reduces market penetration for quality brands. Unlike vehicles, which often come with financing packages or leasing schemes, tires are treated as maintenance expenses and seldom qualify for installment plans. Some tire dealers offer informal credit to trusted customers, but such systems lack structure and scalability. Without formalized financial inclusion for tire purchases, many potential buyers remain untapped, especially those operating on tight margins like small transport companies and gig workers. Introducing micro-financing, digital credit scoring, and tire leasing models could transform consumer behavior. Deferred payment systems, subscription-based tire usage, or pay-per-kilometer plans can ease the burden of upfront costs. Bridging this financing gap would not only boost tire sales but also raise overall safety and vehicle efficiency across consumer segments.

Inadequate Consumer Awareness of Tire Maintenance

Low consumer awareness of basic tire care practices remains a significant challenge. A large section of vehicle owners lacks knowledge about proper tire inflation, rotation, tread depth, and load capacity limits. This leads to premature wear, uneven tread patterns, and higher fuel consumption. In severe cases, ignorance about tire condition contributes to road accidents and mechanical failures. This knowledge gap is not just limited to private vehicle owners but extends to commercial drivers, logistics firms, and even some retailers. Many tire users treat tires as expendables rather than performance-enhancing components. Tire maintenance is often reactive rather than preventive, reducing tire life and increasing replacement frequency. Tire companies and aftermarket networks need to invest more in consumer education through workshops, social media campaigns, and in-store demonstrations. Integrating tire health alerts into vehicle dashboards or mobile apps can also help track usage patterns and recommend maintenance. An informed consumer base will make smarter purchase decisions, demand better products, and reinforce loyalty to high-quality brands.

Infrastructure Constraints Impacting Tire Performance

Poor road infrastructure, especially in rural and undeveloped zones, accelerates tire damage due to frequent potholes, unpaved routes, and extreme terrain. High temperatures and road debris contribute to tire blowouts, irregular wear, and casing rupture. These conditions demand tougher tire compositions and frequent replacements, escalating ownership costs and limiting tire lifespan. Tire manufacturers must invest in reinforced sidewalls, puncture-proof linings, and specialized tread designs to cater to these usage environments. However, these enhancements increase production costs, making the tires less accessible to low-income consumers. Balancing durability with affordability becomes a key engineering and marketing challenge. Retailers must also ensure they stock region-specific SKUs that match the prevailing road quality. The mismatch between tire design and real-world usage often leads to dissatisfaction and premature failure. Infrastructure investment and adaptive product engineering must go hand in hand to ensure that tire offerings are compatible with on-ground mobility conditions.

Key Market Trends

Digitalization of Tire Retail and Distribution

The tire industry is undergoing a digital transformation that is reshaping how tires are marketed, sold, and delivered. Online platforms, mobile apps, and e-commerce websites are becoming central to tire distribution strategies. Consumers are now able to compare prices, check compatibility, read reviews, and place orders directly from their phones or computers. This shift offers greater convenience and transparency, especially for urban consumers and fleet operators seeking efficiency. Digitalization also supports inventory management and supply chain optimization. Retailers and distributors can integrate their stock systems with digital platforms to avoid overstocking or understocking. Consumers receive real-time updates on product availability and delivery timelines. This boosts confidence in the purchase process and promotes brand loyalty through seamless service experiences. Tire manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by offering virtual tire advisors, size-matching algorithms, and even AR-based tire visualization tools. Partnerships between e-commerce giants and tire companies are expanding the reach of premium brands into markets that were traditionally dominated by small shops or unorganized vendors. Moreover, digital platforms facilitate loyalty programs, post-sale service reminders, and warranty registrations, creating an end-to-end ecosystem for the tire customer journey. Digital tire retail also helps collect valuable consumer behavior data, which can inform product development and marketing strategies. Companies that embrace digitalization will benefit from scalable customer acquisition, reduced transaction friction, and enhanced brand differentiation in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Rise in Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Tire Solutions

Sustainability is becoming a core focus area in the tire industry, influencing how products are manufactured, marketed, and recycled. With growing environmental consciousness, consumers and fleet operators are actively seeking tires that offer low rolling resistance, longer lifecycle, and recyclable materials. Manufacturers are responding by incorporating bio-based oils, silica compounds, and advanced polymers into tire formulations to reduce environmental impact. Eco-friendly tires reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by enhancing vehicle efficiency. These innovations are especially attractive to commercial transport operators seeking to meet ESG targets and lower total operating costs. Some tire brands are also offering carbon footprint labeling to help customers make informed decisions. Sustainability-driven procurement policies from fleet operators are also encouraging the adoption of green tire alternatives. On the production side, manufacturers are investing in cleaner processes, such as renewable energy use, water recycling, and waste reduction at tire plants. Scrapped tires are being repurposed for energy, construction materials, or retreading, thereby contributing to circular economy models. Innovations in tire recycling methods, such as pyrolysis and devulcanization, are gradually gaining commercial traction, closing the loop in the tire lifecycle. This green momentum is no longer a niche but a mainstream trend shaping product development, branding, and consumer choice. Companies that align their strategies with sustainability benchmarks are expected to gain market advantage and long-term trust.

Integration of Smart Tire Technologies

Smart tires equipped with sensors and IoT capabilities are being introduced to improve vehicle safety, performance tracking, and maintenance efficiency. These advanced tires can monitor temperature, pressure, tread wear, and load conditions in real-time, transmitting data to vehicle dashboards or mobile apps. This technology is especially beneficial for commercial fleets where tire failure can lead to operational delays and increased costs.

Smart tires help detect slow leaks, improper inflation, and uneven wear patterns early, allowing preemptive action that extends tire life. Fleet managers can use this data to optimize route planning, reduce fuel usage, and schedule maintenance proactively. In logistics-intensive operations, real-time monitoring of tire health is evolving into a standard safety and cost-control feature. Tire companies are offering these smart capabilities either as integrated components in premium tires or as aftermarket sensors that can be attached to standard tires. This modularity expands the addressable market and allows for phased adoption based on budget and use case. Data from smart tires is also being used to train AI models that can predict tire failures and recommend ideal driving behaviors. The integration of smart tire technology positions tires not just as consumables but as data-driven components of modern mobility. As adoption increases, these tires will redefine value perception in both passenger and commercial segments, shifting purchase decisions toward performance intelligence and lifecycle cost rather than just price or durability.

Shift Toward Multi-Brand Retail Formats

Retail formats in the tire market are evolving from single-brand outlets to multi-brand showrooms and aggregator platforms. Consumers are showing preference for retailers that provide variety, comparative evaluation, and flexibility in pricing. This shift is encouraging tire distributors and service providers to stock multiple international and regional brands under one roof, catering to different budget and performance needs. Multi-brand formats improve transparency and encourage healthy competition. Buyers can access a wide range of tires across price points and specifications, which simplifies decision-making. These retail environments also offer promotions, combo offers, and loyalty benefits that create customer stickiness. Many such outlets are incorporating value-added services like insurance, roadside assistance, and on-site tire installation to differentiate themselves. The emergence of these formats is disrupting traditional dealership models, pushing legacy brands to become more consumer-centric in their outreach. Aggregator platforms also enable retailers to broaden their reach via online ordering and nationwide shipping. In markets where brand loyalty is low and pricing is sensitive, these multi-brand outlets offer customers the best balance of choice, convenience, and savings. This trend is democratizing tire access while intensifying the need for manufacturers to compete not just on product performance but also channel partnerships, promotional tactics, and point-of-sale experiences.

Growing Popularity of All-Season and Multi-Terrain Tires

Consumers and fleet managers are increasingly opting for all-season and multi-terrain tires that can handle varied weather and road conditions with minimal switching. These tires offer a hybrid tread pattern, improved sidewall strength, and compound formulations that maintain grip across temperature ranges. The convenience of a one-size-fits-all solution is especially appealing to users who frequently move between urban, semi-urban, and off-road areas. Multi-terrain tires are designed for flexibility—offering durability for rough roads while maintaining fuel efficiency and comfort on highways. Their growing popularity is driven by an increased focus on cost management and maintenance simplification. Commercial fleets, in particular, benefit from reduced downtime and lower warehousing needs, as fewer tire types are required in inventory. Tire manufacturers are innovating aggressively in this category, launching lines with reinforced bead designs, self-cleaning treads, and adaptive siping technologies. Marketing is focusing on convenience and durability rather than performance extremes, which aligns with the needs of the mass market. These tires are also being bundled with long-term warranties and performance guarantees, increasing buyer confidence. As infrastructure continues to be inconsistent and mobility patterns evolve, the preference for hybrid tire formats is expected to increase. This product segment is reshaping the tire landscape by shifting the value proposition from specialization to versatility.

Segmental Insights

Tire Construction Type Insights

In 2024, radial tires are dominating the Africa tire market by a considerable margin when segmented by tire construction type. The primary reason behind their dominance lies in their structural advantages, extended lifespan, and growing preference among both passenger and commercial vehicle segments. Radial tires are constructed with steel belts running at a 90-degree angle to the tread line, offering reduced rolling resistance, enhanced grip, and better heat dissipation compared to bias tires. These features make them particularly suitable for long-distance travel, heavy-duty applications, and urban use where tire durability and fuel economy are key concerns.

The increasing penetration of modern vehicles equipped with advanced suspension systems has also influenced the shift toward radial tires. These vehicles are typically engineered to perform optimally with radial tires due to their ability to maintain consistent road contact and absorb road irregularities more efficiently. This not only improves ride comfort but also contributes to reduced wear and tear on the vehicle, which is a major driver in markets sensitive to maintenance costs.

Radial tires are becoming more accessible across diverse African markets due to improvements in logistics and distribution networks, making it easier for consumers to access better tire technology at competitive prices. Importers and local wholesalers are prioritizing radial inventory due to rising demand from fleet operators and private vehicle owners who are seeking better fuel efficiency and longer service intervals. The rise of road freight transportation, especially for cross-border logistics and intra-urban delivery services, has further accelerated the shift to radial options, which offer longer tread life and superior load-bearing capacity.

The trend is also supported by expanding awareness regarding tire performance and safety benefits. Vehicle owners are increasingly seeking value for money rather than simply opting for the cheapest available options. Radial tires, while initially more expensive, provide long-term cost savings through fewer replacements, better mileage, and lower risk of blowouts, which appeals to commercial operators and cost-conscious consumers alike. This shift in purchasing behavior is reshaping supply priorities for distributors and service providers who are now aligning their inventories with the rising preference for radial construction.

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Country Insights

In 2024, South Africa emerges as the dominant region in the Africa tire market. This is driven by the country’s well-established automotive industry, which includes a high number of passenger vehicles, commercial fleets, and a growing demand for tires in both urban and rural areas. South Africa's strategic position as an economic hub in the southern part of the continent, combined with its advanced infrastructure and manufacturing capacity, contributes significantly to its leadership in tire consumption. For instance, In 2023, South Africa’s automotive industry set a new record for vehicle exports, with 399,594 units exported and total production reaching 633,332 vehicles. This marked a remarkable recovery from 2020’s 441,822 vehicles produced. The industry generated USD 14.26 billion in revenue from vehicle and component exports, reflecting a 19.1% growth compared to 2022. Exports to African countries totaled 25,381 vehicles, highlighting strong potential for expansion under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The automotive sector employs 116,069 people and contributes 3.2% to the GDP. Noteworthy investments in 2023 included BMW’s USD 236.84 billion for X3 Plug-in Hybrid production, Stellantis’s 157.89 billion for a new Coega facility, and Ford’s USD 273.68 billion for PHEV production at the Silverton Assembly Plant. In total, over R60 billion in investments have been made, driving growth and creating sustainable job opportunities.

The country is home to a well-developed automotive manufacturing sector, producing a wide range of vehicles that require high-quality tires. The demand for tires in South Africa is further fueled by its vast road networks and a robust transport industry, which includes freight logistics, public transportation, and personal vehicles. These industries rely heavily on durable and cost-effective tire solutions, particularly radial tires, which have become the preferred choice due to their superior performance and longer lifespan.

In urban areas, consumer preferences are shifting toward premium and performance tires, driven by the growing middle class and rising disposable incomes. These consumers are increasingly investing in vehicles that demand high-performance tire products, including those for SUVs and luxury cars. In contrast, rural and semi-urban areas continue to see strong demand for robust tires capable of withstanding harsh road conditions, including off-road and all-terrain options.

South Africa also benefits from an expanding retail and distribution network that ensures tire availability across the country. Retail outlets, both physical and online, are experiencing a surge in demand due to consumer awareness of tire quality and the importance of maintaining vehicle safety. This has led to increased competition among distributors and tire suppliers, which in turn has made tires more accessible at competitive prices.

Another key driver for South Africa's dominance in the tire market is its role as a regional hub for manufacturing and exports. The country exports tires to neighboring regions such as Southern Africa, where demand for tires is also increasing due to improving infrastructure and growing automotive ownership. The presence of a well-established tire supply chain network further strengthens South Africa’s position as the dominant player in the African tire market in 2024.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Hankook, a leading premium tire manufacturer, has inaugurated its first commercial branch in Morocco, marking a significant step in its expansion into the African market. The new subsidiary, located in Casablanca, aims to enhance Hankook's presence in the Maghreb and West Africa regions. Don Yi Jeon, who has extensive experience in marketing and sales within the company, has been appointed as the Managing Director of the Moroccan branch. ​
• In 2024, Omni United has introduced innovative tire solutions in South Africa to enhance driver safety amid the country's high crime rates. At the "Mission Africa Terrain" event, the company unveiled the Radar Dimax Sport and Dimax Sprint tires equipped with run-flat technology, enabling drivers to continue their journey even after a puncture. These tires will be priced equivalently to standard models, aiming to make safety accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, Omni is developing bulletproof tires under the Renegade Ultra line, designed to offer protection in high-risk situations.
• ​In 2023, Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA) is investing approximately USD 107.5 million to upgrade and expand its Dunlop tyre manufacturing plant in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal. The investment aims to enhance the plant's capacity and introduce new technology to meet the growing demand for high-quality passenger and SUV tyres. The first phase, valued at around USD 59.1 million, focuses on modernising the plant's equipment, while the second phase, estimated at USD 48.9 million, will establish local manufacturing of truck and bus tyres, previously imported from Japan and China. This initiative is supported by the South African government through a USD 16.1 million grant under the Automotive Investment Scheme and aims to create over 400 new jobs, boosting local employment and industrial development.

Key Market Players

• Bridgestone Corporation
• Zhongce Rubber Group Co., Ltd
• Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
• Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd
• Shandong Linglong Tyre Co., Ltd
• Pirelli & C. S.p.A.
• Yokohama Rubber Company Limited
• Kumho Tire Co. Inc
• BFGoodrich Tyres
• Hankook Tire & Technology Co., Ltd.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Africa Tire Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

·         Africa Tire Market, By Vehicle Type:

o    Passenger Car

o    Two-Wheelers

o    Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)

o    Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV)

·         Africa Tire Market, By Demand Category:

o    OEM

o    Aftermarket

·         Africa Tire Market, By Tire Construction Type:

o    Radial

o    Bias

·         Africa Tire Market, By Country:

o    South Africa

o    Egypt

o    Morocco

o    Libya

o    Nigeria

o    Kenya

o    Angola

o    Zimbabwe

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Africa Tire Market.

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Africa Tire Market report with the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to the company’s specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

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