Winter Tires Market in Russia: Supply, Pricing, and Public Support Efforts
Car owners are currently navigating the challenge of securing winter tires as forecasters warn of an impending cold snap. A number of well-known tire manufacturers have exited the Russian market, while others faced disruptions in their supply chains. Despite these shifts, the tire segment has managed to stay relatively stable for the moment.
Inventory recovery began last year in anticipation of high demand, with expectations that about 1.6 million new passenger vehicles would be registered in 2022. Looking at the present scene, it is clear that selling that many cars will be improbable. Some production lines were redirected to ensure continuous output, but with factories halting operations, warehouses began to swell with tires awaiting sale. The industry weathered a period of adjustment as supply balanced against shifting consumer demand.
Who is in the market?
Overall, the country holds more than 80 million tires in stock, with approximately 33 million of them being winter tires, according to Avtodom Altufievo as reported by Rossiyskaya Gazeta. Each year Russian residents purchase around 4 million tires, a figure cited by the AvtoSpetsTsentr Group of Companies. In other words, there is not a general shortage of tires on the Russian market.
Not all manufacturers operate within Russia’s borders. Continental manufactures tires in Kaluga, Bridgestone in Ulyanovsk, and Pirelli in Voronezh. Chinese producers, offering a combination of quality and affordability, have captured about a quarter of the market. They supply tires to Russia from locations such as Hong Kong, South Korea, Turkey, and Uzbekistan. Domestic factories continue to operate and contribute to overall availability. [Citation: Rossiyskaya Gazeta] [Citation: AvtoSpetsTsentr Group of Companies]
Prices
After a spring spike that reached as high as 30%, winter tire prices have settled back toward the levels seen in December 2021. On average, a full set of winter tires from a Russian manufacturer costs around 20,000 rubles, while a Belarusian set runs about 25,000 rubles. Chinese-made tires tend to be priced around 28,000 rubles per set. [Citation: Market reports]
As soon as the first snow arrives, many drivers rush to the store, triggering a rapid surge in demand. In such moments, prices tend to rise again. Despite a solid supply, seasonal demand can push prices higher, though experts do not anticipate a dramatic jump given current market dynamics.
Needs for 7,000 tires in popular sizes
Stability in tire supply is essential for public safety and health services. Without reliable tire availability, road safety and medical response could be compromised. Ensuring adequate tire stocks supports emergency readiness and the ability to respond effectively when winter conditions challenge road networks.
“Behind the Wheel” and the Popular Front have joined forces to raise funds for critical tires. The initiative aims to equip cars used by the People’s Police, the operational units of the LPR and DPR, ambulances, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and vehicles involved in delivering humanitarian aid to Donbas. Contributions can be made via the collection page to support these efforts. [Citation: Community partnership announcements]