According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), total tread rubber shipments will increase 2.8% in 2006.
The RMA's Tread Rubber Market Analysis Committee said the increase will be fueled by the following:
1. economic growth,
2. a strong demand for off-the-road tires, and
3. truck traffic volume.
"Continued strength in construction, increases in the number of trucks, expansion in the manufacturing sector and positive freight trends are expected to sustain total growth through 2008 of 1.7%."
If it plays out as predicted, the 2006 forecast will mark the fourth consecutive year that shipments will increase. In 2005, shipments were up 1.9%.
