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ELEVATING
THE ARGENTINE TYRE INDUSTRY
COUNTRY
REPORT - ARGENTINA
In the ever-evolving landscape of the Argentine tyre retreading industry, the appointment of Engineer Diego Gastón Pastor as the General Manager of the Asociación de Reconstructores Argentinos de Neumáticos (ARAN) heralds a new chapter of leadership and innovation. Following a pivotal board meeting in December 2023, his recent induction underscores ARAN’s commitment to steering the industry towards a future of quality, sustainability, and excellence.
One of Pastor’s first significant undertakings is introducing a compre- hensive Technical Training and Upgrading Manual for Tyre Operational Personnel. This initiative, born out of years of fieldwork, technical assis- tance, and shared expertise, aims to elevate the industry’s standards by focusing on continuous improvement and education. The manual, me- ticulously prepared to enhance tyre professionals’ technical prowess and safety practices, is also set to transcend language barriers, with translations into English and Portuguese on the horizon.
The initial limited edition of 200 copies, despite the high production costs attributed to its quality and illustrative content, serves as a foun- dational tool for technical staff across tyre shops and sales points. Fun- ded by the sale of these manuals, the initiative aims to foster future educational projects, further cementing ARAN’s role in advancing the tyre retreading sector.
ARAN’S VISION FOR REORGANISATION AND CERTIFICATION
Under Pastor’s guidance, ARAN embarks on a strategic reorganisation to revitalise and revalue the tyre retreading industry. Reflecting on the sector’s journey, which has seen many retreading plants achieve ISO 9000 Series Certification, Pastor emphasises the importance of a rigo- rous Certification Scheme for Tyre Retreading Plants. This scheme, de- veloped in collaboration with official control bodies, is underpinned by two fundamental pillars: road safety and environmental stewardship.
The certification process, overseen by the Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Industrial (INTI) through its Certification Body and Rubber Technology Department, encompasses a comprehensive framework. It assesses the technical and legal compliance of re- treading plants and their organisational effectiveness, ensuring a holistic approach to quality management and continuous improve- ment.
THE PATH FORWARD: COLLABORATION AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
As ARAN moves forward, Pastor’s vision extends beyond immedia- te organisational goals to encompass broader engagement within the industry. By promoting technical aptitude and facilitating ac- cess to certification processes, ARAN seeks to elevate the entire sector, ensuring that retreading plants meet and exceed the hi- ghest quality and sustainability standards.
Pastor’s leadership heralds a new era of collaboration, professional development, and innovation for the Argentine tyre retreading in- dustry. With a clear focus on education, certification, and environ- mental responsibility, ARAN is poised to lead the sector towards a future where quality, safety, and sustainability are inextricably linked, benefitting the industry, the wider community, and the environment.
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