China typhoons threaten tire supply in Brazil

Typhoons in China and significant congestion at major Asian ports are threatening the supply of imported tires to Brazil. The Brazilian Association of Tire Importers and Distributors (ABIDIP) warned that the combination of extreme weather and port delays is creating logistical pressures, including a shortage of shipping space and containers.

Freight costs for a 40-foot container have surged from approximately US$ 3,000 to between US$ 8,000 and US$ 9,500 for shipments scheduled in early September. Strategic ports such as Shanghai and Ningbo temporarily suspended operations for safety, leaving more than 800 ships anchored and affecting roughly 2.4 million TEUs.

ABIDIP President Ricardo Alípio noted that the industry's concern has shifted from merely freight prices to the fundamental ability to secure space and equipment for shipments. To mitigate the risk of shortages in the replacement market—which serves retailers, fleet operators, and ride-hailing drivers—importers are currently accelerating orders and increasing stock levels.