In wake of accidents caused by overused, damaged and non-conforming tires, ESMA (The Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology) decided to ensure and implement installation of smart chips in tires by the end of 2017.
These second-generation chips will store useful data like date of manufacture, life span, and information about importers and wholesalers of tires in a central database accessible to consumers and tire inspectors. Each tire will be assigned a unique serial number to access this information and to eliminate any data manipulation or forgery.
ESMA briefed that technical specifications of tires, eligible for use in the UAE, will be changed to accommodate the use of smart chips. The use of smart chips in tires will help in snubbing use of tires not specifically built for the UAE roads. Moreover, it will assist in eliminating counterfeits from the market. A 90-day grace period will be given to tire importers and suppliers before finalizing the rule.
Representative from ESMA further explained that this move will empower consumers as they will gain valuable knowledge regarding authenticity and conformity of tires they will be purchasing. Also, importers and suppliers will need to submit a verifiable report from an independent laboratory regarding specifications of the imported tires. Additionally, more stringent laws will be set in place for tire transportation and distribution from factories to depots and marketplaces, ensuring that only the authentic products reach to end consumers.