The impact of oil and natural gas on carbon black industry is discussed. The carbon black market remains under pressure from prolonged high costs for oil and natural gas. Rubber consumption by the tire industry appears to have slowed. Fiscal and labor troubles at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and other tire manufacturers could lead to long-term demand troubles for the domestic carbon black industry. Producers are also concerned about the impact that current labor negotiations may have on the domestic tire industry.