As autumn gradually shifts into winter, drivers in Croatia are once again contemplating the purchase of winter tires. This year, however, the topic is particularly sensitive – the prices of winter tires have seen a significant increase, leaving many drivers uncertain about when and which tires to buy. In this article, we will analyze the reasons behind the price hikes, what changes we can expect in 2025, and how consumers can best prepare themselves.
Price Trends for Winter Tires
Over the past five years, the prices of winter tires in Croatia have risen by around 65%. While a few years ago drivers could expect stable or moderate price changes, the situation today is markedly different. Experts predict that by 2025, the prices of winter tires could increase further, averaging around 20%, with premium brands potentially experiencing even greater hikes.
The rise in prices is not a problem unique to Croatia – it is part of a global trend influenced by increased costs of raw materials, energy, and transportation, as well as changes in European Union regulations. [Source](https://www.jutarnji.hr/autoklub/aktualno/u-pet-godina-poskupjele-65-posto-cijene-zimskih-guma-ce-eksplodirati-15620756?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Main Causes of Price Increases
1. Surge in Raw Material Costs
Natural rubber, steel, aluminum, and other materials required for tire production have drastically increased in price. Global supply disruptions, heightened demand, and geopolitical tensions (e.g., the war in Ukraine) have all contributed to this price rise. Manufacturers are forced to pass some of these costs onto consumers.
2. Increased Transportation and Energy Costs
Given that production largely takes place outside of Croatia, transportation costs directly impact tire prices in stores. The rise in fuel and electricity prices further adds to production and logistics expenses.
3. European Union Regulations
The EU is implementing stricter regulations regarding the origin of natural rubber. Manufacturers must demonstrate that their rubber does not come from illegal deforestation. This requirement increases the production and certification costs of tires, indirectly raising the price for the end consumer.
4. Seasonal Demand
As the mandatory winter tire season approaches, demand rises sharply. Retailers often do not have enough stock to meet all customers’ needs at once, which further affects prices. This combination of high demand and limited supply naturally leads to increased costs.
Consequences for Drivers
The rise in winter tire prices is impacting consumer behavior. Many drivers are opting for cheaper models or choosing mid-range tires, while premium options are increasingly seen as a luxury. Additionally, there is a risk of delaying purchases, which can lead to driving on inadequate tires in winter conditions, resulting in greater road safety concerns.
Tire mounting and balancing services are also experiencing price increases, making the overall cost of preparing a vehicle for winter significantly higher than in previous years.
How to Prepare
To avoid the undesirable consequences of rising prices, experts recommend several practical steps. The most important is to plan your purchase in advance and not wait until the last moment, when demand and prices peak. It’s wise to compare prices from different retailers and consider mid-range options, which often provide the best combination of safety and affordability.
It’s also essential to pay attention to the markings on the tires, as EU regulations require certain standards for winter driving. For instance, the “Alpine” designation is relevant in most EU countries, whereas the M+S (mud & snow) symbol no longer guarantees that a tire meets the latest performance standards for snow and ice.
The increase in winter tire prices in Croatia is not just a short-term issue; it is a trend expected to continue in the coming years. Understanding the causes of price increases and proactively planning your purchase can help drivers avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure safe driving during winter. Although prices are rising, there are tools and strategies available to help reduce costs while maintaining vehicle safety.
Buying winter tires requires planning, awareness, and a degree of strategy – and given the anticipated price changes, now is the perfect time to prepare in advance.
Price Trends for Winter Tires in Croatia (2020–2025)
2020: The average price for a set of winter tires ranged between 400 and 500 euros.
2021: Prices began to rise due to increasing raw material and transportation costs.
2022: The continued price increase was driven by global supply chain disruptions and heightened demand.
2023: Prices continued to climb, with the average set costing around 650 euros.
2024: Prices increased by an additional 6%, and experts predicted further growth.
2025: According to the latest information, prices have surged by another 20%, especially for premium brands.
The current trend shows a continuous increase in winter tire prices in Croatia. Drivers are advised to plan their purchases and tire replacements in advance to avoid additional costs and ensure safety on the roads during winter conditions.
Increase in Winter Tire Prices in 2025
According to data from retailers, winter tire prices have risen by between 5 and 10 percent compared to last year. However, over the broader period since 2020, prices have skyrocketed by up to 65 percent. For instance, a set of winter tires that cost between 400 and 500 euros in 2020 is now priced between 650 and 800 euros. Radio NU
Geopolitical Situation and Raw Material Costs
The war in Ukraine, sanctions against Russia, and rising energy and transportation costs have contributed to an increase in the prices of key raw materials such as natural rubber, steel, and aluminum. These factors are driving up the costs of producing and distributing tires. Slobodna Dalmacija
New European Regulations
The European Union is preparing a regulation that will ban the sale of products linked to deforestation, including rubber from illegally harvested forests. This regulation will require manufacturers to prove the origin of their raw materials, which could increase production costs and, consequently, tire prices. Radio NU
Consequences for Drivers
Experts warn that further price increases could lead to a decrease in the number of drivers using winter tires, which may raise the risk of accidents in winter conditions. Miljenko Gočin from the Croatian Drivers’ Union emphasizes that rising costs could result in fewer people opting for winter tires, potentially causing problems on the roads during snowfall. Dnevnik.hr
Recommendations for Drivers
Given the anticipated further rise in prices, it is recommended that drivers plan their purchase of winter tires in advance. It is also important to compare prices of different brands and models and to consider buying mid-range tires, which often offer a good balance of price and quality.
