Deadly Bug Threatens Tyre Prices

A killer fungus that destroys rubber trees is threatening the tyre industry's future - and could push up prices for motorists.

Auto Express Car Reviews

25th May 2004

Called microcyclus ulei, the tiny parasite attacks the leaves of the vital crop, eventually ruining entire plantations. The natural rubber harvest in Latin and Central America is already affected, but experts fear the disease could spread to Africa and Asia. As the main supplier to car tyre makers, the industry supports 30million people globally.

Halting the spread of microcyclus ulei was the subject of a conference at Michelin's research centre in Bahia, Brazil. More than 80 scientists from 10 countries were invited to discuss the problem.

There are 14 parasite-resistant varieties of tree in final testing at the facility. A company spokesman told Auto Express: "The situation could force up tyre prices if action isn't taken, as more plants would be needed to obtain the required amounts of rubber."