Gripmax Tires Talks U.S. Strategy

In this MTD exclusive, David Wang, managing director of Gripmax Tires Inc., discusses Gripmax’s short-term and long-term strategy in the U.S. market.

"2026 will be a year of visible progress for Gripmax,” he says.

MTD: How was Gripmax Tire's business in the U.S. during 2025? What have been some of the company's more notable achievements in the U.S. during the past 12 months?

Wang: 2025 was a strong year for us in the U.S.  We don't disclose specific numbers, but the direction was very positive. What we are most proud of is the quality of our progress, our stronger channel presence and (our) broader product availability. We have built momentum in the right areas and that gives us a very solid foundation in 2026.

MTD: How has your product sourcing been? Have tariffs imposed by the U.S. government influenced Gripmax's product sourcing strategy for the U.S. market?

Wang: Tariffs are part of the operating environment so yes, they influence how we play. 

MTD: Have you found ways to keep your supply strong and steady?

Wang: Our response is not reactive. It’s structural. We took some flexibility in sourcing and production planning so we can protect supply continuity and stay competitive for our U.S. partners.

MTD: You continue to introduce new products in the U.S. Can you provide a preview of any new products from Gripmax that will debut in the U.S. during 2026?

Wang: I can’t share specifics yet, but in 2026 we will bring very important products to the U.S.

MTD: What's your distribution strategy in the U.S.? Are you selling through wholesalers, retailers or a combination of the two?

Wang: It’s a hybrid model and that's very intentional. The U.S. market requires both strong distribution and also very strong retail visibility. We have built our strategy around that. We are active across major channels and continue to develop deep partnerships.

MTD: What opportunities do you see in the U.S. market for Gripmax, both short-term and long-term?

Wang: Short term, the opportunities are (centered on) gaining depth in our core segments and sharpening our brand position. That is important for us. For the long term, the opportunities are bigger – to build Gripmax into a category-defining brand in the segments where we choose to lead.

MTD: What can we expect to see from Gripmax in 2026?

Wang: 2026 will be a year of visible progress for Gripmax. You will see us strengthen our core business, expand in key segments and bring more clarity to our long-term direction in the U.S. We are not ready to announce everything yet, but the market will see a more ambitious Gripmax in 2026. We’re looking forward to that.