Qatar Ministry of Commerce and Industry Emphasizes Importance of Compliance with Updated Tire Storage Regulations

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) in Qatar has underscored the significance of adhering to the updated Qatari Technical Regulation for the Storage Requirements of Passenger Car, Truck, and Bus Tires, QS GSO 581:2021. This regulation, issued under Decision No. (35) of 2026 by Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, is a pivotal step in the ministry's collaborative efforts with the Qatar General Organization for Standards and Metrology to establish and refine technical regulations and standards in line with international best practices.

The primary aim of this technical regulation is to enhance the safety of tires in circulation within the local market. By establishing precise requirements for storage and handling operations, the regulation seeks to preserve tire quality and operational efficiency. It also aims to mitigate risks associated with improper storage, bolster consumer protection, and elevate road safety standards. The regulation is comprehensive, covering aspects such as the storage environment, handling procedures, and specific requirements for tire storage facilities.

One of the key aspects of the regulation is the specification of storage conditions. Tires must be stored in dry, well-ventilated areas with temperatures not exceeding 35°C, protecting them from moisture condensation, direct sunlight, and ultraviolet radiation. Additionally, the presence of ozone-generating equipment, such as electric motors and exposed fluorescent lamps, is prohibited within storage areas, as are chemicals, oils, or fuel near storage facilities. Compliance with general safety requirements related to protection against fires and dust storms is also mandated.

The regulation outlines detailed storage and handling procedures. Tires must be arranged to prevent exposure to pressure or tension that could result in permanent deformation. Furthermore, priority must be given to the withdrawal of older stock to minimize storage periods. The regulation specifies storage methods based on duration: for short periods not exceeding four weeks, tires must be placed horizontally on wooden pallets, with stack heights not exceeding 2,000 mm. For longer storage periods, tires must be stored vertically on racks elevated at least 100 mm above the ground and rearranged monthly to prevent deformation.

A crucial aspect of the regulation is the establishment of a permitted sales period for tires. The sales period is set at 24 months from the date of manufacture for passenger car, bus, and light truck tires, and 30 months for heavy truck tires. This period can be extended by an additional six months if certain conditions are met, including submission of a manufacturer's warranty confirming the tire's suitability for use for a minimum of five years under normal operating conditions, provision of a consumer warranty of no less than one year, and full compliance with the storage requirements stipulated in the technical regulation.

The MoCI has stressed the importance of compliance with the provisions of the technical regulation by all agents, distributors, and owners of tire sales and storage outlets. Adherence to the approved requirements and controls is fundamental to ensuring the circulation of products that meet the highest standards adopted in the State. Non-compliance may result in legal action against violators, underscoring the ministry's commitment to consumer safety and the maintenance of high-quality products in the market.

In conclusion, the updated Qatari Technical Regulation for the Storage Requirements of Passenger Car, Truck, and Bus Tires represents a significant step forward in Qatar's efforts to enhance consumer protection and road safety. By setting clear standards for tire storage and handling, the regulation contributes to the overall quality of life in Qatar, reflecting the country's dedication to adopting and enforcing international best practices in various sectors.