A Chinese tyre manufacturer is under investigation in Thailand following allegations of smuggling defective tyres into the country, rebranding them, and falsely labelling them as Thai-made for export.
The inquiry is being led by Thailand’s Ministry of Industry, which has confirmed that the company in question received government investment privileges to manufacture vehicle tyres domestically using imported raw materials. The manufacturer reportedly employed only Chinese workers and allegedly imported tyres that failed to meet safety and quality standards from China.
Once in Thailand, the tyres were reportedly stripped of original branding and markings, modified, and then falsely labelled as new products. Some of these rebranded tyres carried “Made in Thailand” tags and were marked specifically for export, raising concerns over consumer safety and the reputational damage to Thailand’s rubber and tyre manufacturing sector.
Inspectors dispatched to the company’s facility found modified tyres stored together with legitimately produced export tyres. The ministry has requested an official explanation from the manufacturer and is compiling a full report for Industry Minister Akanat Promphan, who will determine the next steps.
The company’s identity is currently being withheld during the early stages of the investigation.
The case highlights ongoing concerns within Thailand’s tyre industry about the quality of imports, particularly from China. In recent years, Thai authorities have introduced stricter import regulations to curb the entry of substandard tyres and materials.
These include:
◼ Enhanced screening of imported tyres
◼ Tighter enforcement of quality and safety standards by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI)
◼ A crackdown on illegal labelling and false declarations in customs documentation
Industry watchers note that false labelling of tyre origin can have wider consequences, particularly for countries like Thailand that have worked to build international trust in the quality of their rubber and tyre products.
Bookmark this page as further updates are expected once the Ministry of Industry completes its initial findings.
April 8th 2025:
The company involved in the investigation has not been named publicly yet. The Thai Industry Ministry is withholding the company's name pending further investigation
What has triggered the investigation into falsely labelled tyres?
A shipment of tyres imported into the UK was found to be falsely labelled as 'Made in Thailand', raising concerns over misrepresentation and potential safety compliance issues.
Who is investigating the false labelling of tyres?
The UK government is investigating the case, with input from trading standards and customs authorities.
Where were the tyres actually manufactured?
Authorities believe the tyres were not manufactured in Thailand, despite bearing that country-of-origin marking. The actual origin is still under investigation.
Why does incorrect country-of-origin labelling matter?
Misleading labels can violate UK import regulations and may raise questions about whether the tyres meet required safety and performance standards.
What are the possible consequences for importers?
If found guilty, companies involved could face penalties for mislabelling, including fines, product recalls, or import bans.
How can buyers avoid mislabelled or non-compliant tyres?
Consumers and businesses should source tyres through verified suppliers and check for correct labelling, including full compliance with UK safety markings such as E-mark certification.
What impact could this have on the UK tyre market?
The investigation may prompt more rigorous checks at borders and increase pressure on importers to ensure full transparency and compliance.
Are there wider concerns about tyre imports?
Yes, the case highlights ongoing concerns over the traceability and quality control of imported tyres, especially from unregulated channels.
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