Russian authorities reported elevated levels of carcinogenic substances in several Chinese-made tires, triggering increased regulatory attention on imported rubber products and prompting changes to Russia’s environmental tax framework tied to tire chemical composition.

According to findings cited by the Russian news agency TASS, testing conducted by Roskachestvo identified polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a number of Chinese tire models at concentrations well above accepted safety thresholds. In contrast, domestically produced Russian tires were reported to comply with established limits for these hazardous compounds.

PAHs are a known class of carcinogens that can be released into the environment through tire wear particles during vehicle use and through emissions generated during tire recycling or disposal. Their presence has become a growing concern globally as regulators increasingly focus on the environmental and health impacts of tire materials.

PAH levels exceeded safety limits several times over

Test results showed that PAH concentrations in some Chinese tires exceeded the maximum permitted level of 0.25 percent by between 3.2 and 7.7 times. Models referenced in the testing included products such as the GoForm AT01 and the Hifly HF201. Analysts suggested that the elevated PAH content was likely linked to the use of lower-cost aromatic oils in tire compounds, a practice associated with higher environmental and health risks.

Many regions, including the European Union, Japan, and Brazil, have already imposed strict limits on PAHs in tires, reflecting a broader international push to reduce harmful chemicals associated with tire abrasion, microplastics, and end-of-life tire recycling.

Environmental tax changes took effect in 2026

From January 1, 2026, Russia revised its environmental taxation system for tires, introducing higher penalties for products containing excessive levels of carcinogenic substances. Industry sources indicated that tires found to exceed PAH limits could face significantly higher environmental fees, in some cases approaching double the previous rates. The policy shift aligned with wider regulatory efforts to discourage the circulation of chemically hazardous tires and to internalize the environmental costs of tire wear and disposal.

Implications for global tire markets and recycling

The issue extended beyond Russia’s domestic market. As global tire supply chains remained highly interconnected, concerns over chemical composition increasingly influenced import regulations, recycling practices, and brand reputation. For tire recyclers, elevated PAH levels posed additional challenges, as hazardous compounds could complicate material recovery processes and limit downstream applications.

Chemical transparency in tire formulations was therefore becoming a key factor in regulatory compliance, environmental performance, and long-term competitiveness across international markets.

The findings underscored a critical but often underexamined aspect of tire sustainability: chemical safety. PAHs and similar substances were not abstract regulatory concerns but tangible risks with implications for human health, air quality, and tire recycling outcomes. For tire manufacturers and importers, the situation highlighted the need for stronger quality control, clearer disclosure of compound ingredients, and proactive alignment with tightening global standards.

As regulators worldwide increased scrutiny of tire materials, improving the chemical profile of tires was no longer optional. It had become a foundational requirement for maintaining trust, enabling safe recycling, and supporting a more sustainable tire lifecycle.

Article by Tyre Times Magazine.