Tire Company Added Blockchain Tracking to Rubber Supply
New supply chain transparency tools aim to assist small-scale farmers as global demand for natural rubber remains high.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Organic Food
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Yokohama Rubber has joined the Project Tree initiative, implementing a blockchain-based system to trace its natural rubber supply. The company began delivering these tires to FamilyMart on Sept. 25, 2026.
Why it matters
By identifying sourcing areas and offering training to farmers, this initiative seeks to improve supply chain transparency and stability. These efforts are increasingly important as the industry prepares for upcoming sustainability regulations.
Natural rubber accounts for 70% of total global rubber consumption and 30% of a typical tire's raw material composition. While the initiative tracks these materials, the extent to which blockchain data will be audited for compliance with future trade standards remains under review.
The players
Yokohama Rubber
A global manufacturer of automotive tires that uses natural rubber for a significant portion of its products.
FamilyMart
A convenience store chain that acts as a retail partner for the distribution of these tracked automotive products.
Y.T. Rubber Co.
A rubber processing entity that achieved Forest Stewardship Council Chain of Custody certification.
The details
The Project Tree initiative utilizes a blockchain-based traceability system to record the origin of rubber raw materials. By incorporating RubberWay Geo-Mapping as a risk assessment tool, the company can identify specific sourcing areas in Thailand to provide targeted incentives and training programs. This oversight helps ensure that Y.T. Rubber Co. maintains Forest Stewardship Council Chain of Custody certification.
Timeline
Sept. 25, 2026: Yokohama began supplying tires to FamilyMart.
Dec. 30, 2026: EU Deforestation Regulation applies.
Health Landscape
The tire industry is shifting toward greater supply chain accountability to comply with upcoming international standards like the EU Deforestation Regulation. This initiative reflects a broader movement to increase transparency in global agricultural raw material sourcing.
While these changes focus on industrial manufacturing, tracking systems for natural materials are increasingly used to monitor supply chain health and safety standards. Consumers interested in the origin of common household products can look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council.
The takeaway
Blockchain technology is currently being deployed to ensure that the natural rubber in your tires is sourced through transparent and supported farming channels. You can support these efforts by opting for products from manufacturers that prioritize certified and traceable raw material sourcing.
Further reading
For broader trends in supply chain transparency, see our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AftermarketNews.
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Do you trust that corporate supply chain transparency programs actually improve conditions for small-scale farmers?
