UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20580

Division of Enforcement
Bureau of Consumer Protection
Laura D. Koss
Attorney

Mr. Samir F. Gibara
President
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
1144 E. Market Street
Akron, Ohio 44316

Re: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, File No. 992-3040

Dear Mr. Gibara:

The Division of Enforcement staff has conducted an investigation involving an allegation that The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company ("Goodyear") has violated the Federal Trade Commission's "all or virtually all" standard for domestic country of origin claims and Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act.

Staff had received a complaint that Goodyear's sports car bias ply tires were marked "Made in USA" but that these tires were actually made in Chile. Your company has informed staff that Goodyear has been shifting production of these tires to its facility in Chile. Your company stated that molds used in Chile have been modified so that the tires will no longer be marked "Made in USA" but instead "Made in Chile." However, certain tires made in Chile were sent to the United States for testing before the "Made in USA" mold was modified. According to your company, Goodyear personnel immediately discovered these tires upon their arrival in the United States and buffed off the "Made in USA" mark. Your company also stated that these tires were used only for internal analysis and testing purposes, and that no incorrectly marked tires were sold in the United States.

The staff has concluded that no compliance action against Goodyear is indicated at this time. Accordingly, the investigation has been closed. This action is not to be construed as a determination that a violation may not have occurred, just as the pendency of an investigation should not be construed as a determination that a violation has occurred. The Commission reserves the right to take such further action as the public interest may require.

Sincerely,

Elaine D. Kolish
Associate Director

cc: Michael R. Rickman, Esq.