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  • Sustainability in Tires
  • Traction Summit

Sustainability in Tires

📅 3–4 September 2026
📍Bangkok, Thailand | Hybrid Event

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Sustainability in Tires Asia 2026: “Driving Towards a Greener Future: Innovation, Regulation, and Circularity”
 
Sustainability in Tires brings together experts from the full tire supply chain to take a closer look at emerging innovations and opportunities in the tire sector. This gathering of professionals who are ready to find solutions is the ideal place to increase your brand presence, enforce your market position, and generate new sales leads and business relationships that last long after the event. 

Following the success of the previous edition, Sustainability in Tires Asia 2026 will be held on 3–4 September 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. The conference will focus on the theme of Driving Towards a Greener Future Through Innovation, Regulation & Circularity, bringing together industry leaders and experts to explore the latest developments and strategies in sustainable tire manufacturing and supply chain practices.


Some of 2025 Participants:

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2026 Speakers

View all 7 speakers
Frances Arns - Michelin Asia Pacific

Frances Arns

Head of Sustainability at Michelin Asia Pacific
Michelin Asia Pacific
Dr. Abhijeet Anand - Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT)

Dr. Abhijeet Anand

Deputy manager at Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT)
Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT)
Calvin Xu - RC Era (Shanghai) Material Co.Ltd.

Calvin Xu

General Manager at RC Era (Shanghai) Material Co.Ltd.
RC Era (Shanghai) Material Co.Ltd.
Dr. Suttipong Angthong - Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC)

Dr. Suttipong Angthong

Secretary-General at Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC)
Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC)
Sharon Tong - Smithers

Sharon Tong

Consulting Analyst at Smithers
Smithers
Prof. Dr. Anke Blume - University of Twente

Prof. Dr. Anke Blume

Full Professor, Head of research group Elastomer Technology and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at University of Twente
University of Twente
Frances Arns
Frances Arns
Michelin Asia Pacific
Head of Sustainability at Michelin Asia Pacific

Frances is responsible for steering progress of Michelin’s global sustainability strategy across Asia Pacific. She works with cross-functional teams to both deliver on-the-ground impact and transform for the future, in line with Michelin’s ambitious goals for 2030 and 2050. Frances brings expertise in sustainable business transformation from her consulting background with Deloitte, alongside experience in Finance, Corporate Strategy and NGO leadership. She is currently completing an MBA in sustainable and inclusive business through AGSM at the University of New South Wales.

Dr. Abhijeet Anand
Dr. Abhijeet Anand
Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT)
Deputy manager at Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT)

Dr. Abhijeet Anand works at the intersection of science, technology, sustainability, and industrial innovation, with a strong focus on circular economy driven material solutions. His professional interests include bio based materials, waste derived resources, recovered carbon black, rice husk silica (RHS), recycled fillers, and environmentally responsible alternatives to conventional rubber additives, supporting regulatory and sustainability frameworks such as EUDR. With experience in both industry and academia, he currently serves as Deputy Manager – R&D at Balkrishna Industries Limited (BKT), India, where he is involved in advancing sustainable tire materials and waste management aligned compounding strategies. His work contributes to reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance and industrial scalability. He has published his research in international peer reviewed journals.

Calvin Xu
Calvin Xu
RC Era (Shanghai) Material Co.Ltd.
General Manager at RC Era (Shanghai) Material Co.Ltd.

Calvin, graduated from Dalian University of Technology, has nearly 20 years of experience in leading companies in rubber industry. He worked at Michelin, responsible for formula development and factory quality improvement. Then ExxonMobil on technical services for synthetic rubber and resins, as well applications development technologies for tires and rubber products. And then Cabot Corporation as China technical services manager and later on as Asia Pacific Center R&D manager, and as well the lead scientist. Calvin is now the general manager of Shanghai Veco New Material Technology Co. Ltd.

Dr. Suttipong Angthong
Dr. Suttipong Angthong
Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC)
Secretary-General at Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC)

Dr. Suttipong Angthong is a dedicated professional in the global rubber sector, currently serving as the Secretary-General of the ANRPC. With over 15 years of industry experience - including a foundational tenure at the Rubber Authority of Thailand - he has focused his career on rubber economic research and policies that support the long-term sustainability of the industry and its farmers.
In his role as Secretary-General, Dr. Angthong facilitates a platform representing 13 member nations that account for approximately 80% of global natural rubber production. His mission is to support member nations in transitioning from industry participants to leaders in the global green economy. He is committed to harnessing the collective expertise of the association to meet the evolving demands for transparent, ethical, and sustainable supply chains.
Under his guidance, the ANRPC prioritizes expert-led capacity building, the harmonization of sustainability standards, and the provision of strategic market intelligence. Dr. Angthong remains deeply committed to ensuring that inter-governmental cooperation translates into practical benefits for smallholder farmers, effectively bridging the gap between global industrial requirements and the prosperity of the families who sustain the natural rubber value chain.

Sharon Tong
Sharon Tong
Smithers
Consulting Analyst at Smithers

Sharon was graduated from New York University with her Master’s degree in Management and Systems. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the Ohio State University, Fisher College of Business. Sharon studied in the U.S. for ten years and had several working experiences there.

As a consulting analyst based in Suzhou China, Sharon is responsible for both quantitative and qualitative research for consulting projects and cooperated with the team members in other regions to better proceed and complete the project. Sharon has experience in desk research, data analysis, expert interview, and project management. Advanced methodology and model she learned from business school and experience will add value to the current project in Smithers.

Prof. Dr. Anke Blume
Prof. Dr. Anke Blume
University of Twente
Full Professor, Head of research group Elastomer Technology and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at University of Twente

Anke studied chemistry at the university of Hanover / Germany from October 1988 until July 1993. She did her PhD thesis at the “German Institute for Rubber Technology” (DIK). After nine months post-doc time at the DIK, Anke started in the Applied Technology department of Degussa AG in September 1996. She worked there in different positions, always related to the development of silica and silane for the use in rubber until March 2021. In October 2013, she started at the University of Twente / The Netherlands as the head of the chair “Elastomer Technology and Engineering". In April 2021, she decided to be fully dedicated to the research at the University of Twente. She received the Melvin Mooney Distinguished Technology Award as first woman in 2023.

2026 Advisory Board

Wenying Xu - China Rubber Industry Association

Wenying Xu

President at China Rubber Industry Association
China Rubber Industry Association
Lun Li - China FAW Group Corporation

Lun Li

Senior Director, Chassis Development at China FAW Group Corporation
China FAW Group Corporation
Amy Tang - Geely Research Engineering Center

Amy Tang

Senior Technical Expert at Geely Research Engineering Center
Geely Research Engineering Center
Praveen Joshi - Yokohama Off-Highway Tires

Praveen Joshi

Vice President at Yokohama Off-Highway Tires
Yokohama Off-Highway Tires
Ma Zhong - Continental Tires (China) Co., Ltd.

Ma Zhong

Director of Standards and Regulations APAC at Continental Tires (China) Co., Ltd.
Continental Tires (China) Co., Ltd.
Henry He - Smithers

Henry He

General Manager, Materials Science and Engineering at Smithers
Smithers
Wenying Xu
Wenying Xu
China Rubber Industry Association
President at China Rubber Industry Association

Xu Wenying, female, born in 1972, is a member of the Communist Party of China with a master's degree and a senior engineer. She is currently the President of the 10th Council of China Rubber Industry Association. Since 1994, she has successively held the posts of Manager of Consulting and Cooperation Department, Manager of Exhibition Department, Assistant to General Manager of China Rubber (Group) Corporation, Director, Deputy Secretary General, Executive Deputy Secretary General of Information Exhibition Department of China Rubber Industry Association, and Director General of Rubber Material Professional Committee. Since October 2012, she has served as the Vice President and Secretary General of the 8th and 9th Council of China Rubber Industry Association.

Lun Li
Lun Li
China FAW Group Corporation
Senior Director, Chassis Development at China FAW Group Corporation

Li Lun, Senior Director of Chassis Development Department of FAW R&D Institute of China, Deputy Director of Youth Working Committee of China Society of Automotive Engineering, and a special reviewer of China Automobile Magazine. He has 16 years of experience in independent development and testing of chassis systems. Focusing on the development and testing technology of intelligent chassis system (including intelligent tires), he has presided over a number of FAW National Key Laboratory Open Fund projects and FAW key scientific and technological research projects in the past five years. He has won the first prize of China Productivity Promotion Award and the first prize of Jilin Science and Technology Progress Award.

Amy Tang
Amy Tang
Geely Research Engineering Center
Senior Technical Expert at Geely Research Engineering Center

From 2005 to 2010, Amy worked in Giti R&D Center as PCT PCR & Racing tire engineer. From 2010 to 2012, she joined Linglong R&D Center as International OE Department Manager. After that, Amy worked in Ford Research Engineering Center, served as Tire Supplier Technical Assistant Specialist (2012~2014) and Global Advanced Tire Core Specialist (2014~2018). Since 2018, Amy has been holding the position of Senior Technical Expert in Geely Research Engineering Center.

Praveen Joshi
Praveen Joshi
Yokohama Off-Highway Tires
Vice President at Yokohama Off-Highway Tires

Coming soon...

Ma Zhong
Ma Zhong
Continental Tires (China) Co., Ltd.
Director of Standards and Regulations APAC at Continental Tires (China) Co., Ltd.

Graduated from Tsinghua University, Automotive Engineering department. 31 years in automotive and components industry and over 19 years technical standards, regulations and product certification work experience. Since 2013, served Continental tire company as director of APAC Standards & Regulations.

Henry He
Henry He
Smithers
General Manager, Materials Science and Engineering at Smithers

General Manager of Smithers (Suzhou) Bachelor degree of Measurement & Control Technology and Instrument, Master degree of Business Administration. Henry has been working in tire & wheel testing industry as test Engineer, Lead Test engineer & Lead quality system. Main responsibility of Henry is Tire & wheel testing, data analysis, test method development, company operations & management.

2026 Sponsors

Dow
ECOMAK
Smithers
Global Pallets Services
Dow
Dow
www.dow.com
Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth; asset integration and scale; focused innovation and materials science expertise; leading business positions; and environmental, social and governance leadership to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. The Company's ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world. Dow's portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated, science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Dow operates manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 37,800 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $57 billion in 2022. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth; asset integration and scale; focused innovation and materials science expertise; leading business positions; and environmental, social and governance leadership to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. The Company's ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world. Dow's portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated, science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Dow operates manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 37,800 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $57 billion in 2022. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.
ECOMAK
ECOMAK
https://ecomak.in/
Ecomak: A Leading Name in EPC and Air Pollution Control in the Carbon Black Sector
Sustainability is a core driving force, not just a service.
Ecomak is a distinguished and trusted leader in the field of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services, as well as an advanced provider of Air Pollution Control Units (APCUs) specifically tailored for the carbon black industry. The success lies in its deep understanding of the carbon black manufacturing process and the unique environmental challenges it poses.
From dust extraction and gas cleaning systems to flue gas treatment and energy recovery, Ecomak offers comprehensive solutions that enhance operational efficiency while minimizing ecological impact.
Ecomak’s integrated approach covers the entire project lifecycle—from concept design, engineering, and procurement to construction, commissioning, and after-sales service.
Over three decades of experience in executing some of the largest and most complex air pollution control and EPC projects in the carbon black sector.
  • Successfully delivered India’s biggest turnkey APC projects for carbon black manufacturers.
  • Known for setting benchmarks in quality, project management, and sustainable design.
  • Established a strong global footprint with major projects across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
  • Proven capability to perform under diverse industrial conditions and regulatory environments.
  • Backed by state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and experienced engineering teams.
  • Delivers customized solutions with assured performance and long-term reliability.
  • Aligns with global environmental goals by reducing industrial emissions and supporting greener manufacturing practices.
With a proven track record, international presence, and a relentless focus on client satisfaction and environmental stewardship, Ecomak remains at the forefront of enabling a cleaner and more sustainable future for the carbon black industry.
 
Smithers
Smithers
Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division has been serving the rubber, plastics, print, and packaging industries for nearly 100 years, providing a complete portfolio of testing and consulting services from the product development stage to the ultimate service environment. Our experts have years of experience designing and conducting customized and standard testing protocols to measure the performance and durability of both products and materials. With laboratories in the United States, the United Kingdom, and China, the Materials Science and Engineering Division provides integrated capabilities on a global scale, supporting industry sectors including tire, automotive, polymer products, oil and gas, medical device, pharmaceutical, transport, industrial, consumer products, packaging, paper, and print. As the group's first division to enter the Greater China region,Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division has been in China for over 10 years. We are committed to providing better quality and authoritative testing and consulting services to customers in the automotive industry in China and the Asia-Pacific region.
Global Pallets Services
Global Pallets Services
https://fr-gps.com/
Global Pallets Services, established in 1994, is a leading global supplier of rental metal crates. The company provides foldable, reusable metal containers designed to meet the most demanding supply chain requirements—from the precision needs of automotive logistics to the strict hygiene standards of the food industry, as well as the safety requirements of chemical and rubber transportation.
  • © Smithers 2026
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