India Shines as Four Tyre Makers Enter Global Top 20

India’s tyre industry has marked a major milestone on the global stage, with four homegrown manufacturers making it to the list of the world’s top 20 tyre companies. The latest Global Tyre Report released by Tire Business, based on calendar year 2024 sales, highlights the rising dominance and competitiveness of Indian players in the global market.

According to the report, MRF continues to lead among Indian companies, securing the 13th spot worldwide. Apollo Tyres follows closely at 14th place, maintaining its strong global presence. JK Tyre & Industries has climbed into the 19th position, while CEAT has entered the prestigious Top 20 list for the first time, ranking 20th.

Industry experts say the feat reflects India’s transition from a domestic-focused market to a global manufacturing powerhouse. “The presence of four Indian tyre companies among the world’s top 20 is a matter of immense pride for the Indian manufacturing ecosystem,” said Rajiv Budhraja, Director General of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA). He added that the rankings are proof of India’s commitment to technology, innovation and world-class production standards. “This milestone is a validation of India’s emergence as a global hub for high-quality, value-driven tyre manufacturing.”

The performance of individual companies also tells a story of sustained growth over the years. Apollo Tyres has strengthened its global position by rising three ranks since 2013. JK Tyre has shown even stronger mobility, climbing six spots during the same period. CEAT, meanwhile, has recorded rapid progress in the past year alone, moving up three positions to break into the Top 20.

Beyond rankings, Indian manufacturers are also making significant strides in specialised categories. MRF has emerged as the global leader in racing tyre production, operating three dedicated plants. In the motorcycle tyre segment, MRF holds the second-largest manufacturing footprint worldwide with four plants, followed by CEAT with three. The farm tyre segment also shows India’s manufacturing depth: MRF ranks second globally with seven units catering to agricultural tyres.

A broader outlook for the industry further underscores India’s long-term potential. A joint study by ATMA and PwC India, titled “Viksit Bharat 2047: Vision and Roadmap for the Indian Tyre Industry,” projects exponential growth over the next two decades. The report suggests that tyre production volumes could rise almost fourfold by 2047, while the industry’s revenue is expected to multiply nearly twelve times, touching approximately ₹13,00,000 crore.

With increasing investments, expanding global footprints and strengthening technological capabilities, India’s tyre manufacturers are positioning themselves as major contenders in the international market. Their rise into the global Top 20 signals not just corporate achievement but also India’s evolving role in high-value manufacturing worldwide.