Explore the anticipated global rubber shortage in 2025 as demand continues to outpace supply, impacting industries reliant on rubber.

Rubber fell to 171.90 USD Cents / Kg on December 2, 2025, down 4.50% from the previous day. Over the past month, Rubber's price has risen 0.82%, but it is still 14.65% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Rubber - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on December of 2025.

The natural rubber market size USD 31.68 Billion as of 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 3.50% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. Increasing demand from the automotive sector, particularly for tires and parts, is one of the main drivers of the global natural rubber market, led by growing vehicle production and growing transport networks in the emerging world. The market is thus expected to reach a value of nearly USD 44.69 Billion by 2034.

Global synthetic rubber market analysis: consumption, production, trade, and price trends from 2013-2024 with forecasts to 2035. Key insights on China's dominance, market value growth, and trade dynamics.

In the beginning of 2021, demand for natural rubber spiked and prices for rubber increased due to a quick rebound in China’s tire manufacturing and the heightened need for latex gloves during the pandemic. Rubber production is projected to climb up this year in line with rising demand, slowing down the price growth. There is a risk that droughts in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia will create a supply shortage in the market and enable the prices to soar again.

Global synthetic rubber market analysis: 2024 consumption at 25M tons ($52.9B), with forecasts to reach 27M tons ($64.3B) by 2035. Key insights on production, trade, and leading countries.

The halo butyl rubber prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 2360 USD/MT in June. The prices for diphenhydramine hydrochloride in the region fluctuated significantly due to seasonal demand declines, reduced automotive and construction activity, and stable crude oil rates that limited raw material cost support. Increased production and slow consumption led to supply excess, contributing to bearish market conditions.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Synthetic Rubber market size will be USD 33524.5 million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.20% from 2025 to 2033.

North America held the major market share for more than 20% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 6704.90 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% from 2025 to 2033.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 19% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 85.46 million.
APAC held a market share of around 50% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 16762.25 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2025 to 2033.
South America has a market share of more than 4% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1273.93 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2025 to 2033.
Middle East had a market share of around 4% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 1340.98 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2025 to 2033.
Africa had a market share of around 3.30% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 1106.31 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2025 to 2033.
Polybutadiene (BR) Product is the fastest growing segment of the Synthetic Rubber industry

Market Dynamics of Synthetic Rubber Market

Key Drivers for Synthetic Rubber Market

Growing Automotive Industry to Boost Market Growth

The growing automotive industry is a major driver for the synthetic rubber market due to the increasing demand for vehicles globally. Synthetic rubber is widely used in tire manufacturing, an essential component in automobiles. As vehicle production ramps up, especially in emerging markets, the need for durable, high-performance tires boosts synthetic rubber demand. Additionally, synthetic rubber is utilized in other automotive parts such as seals, hoses, and gaskets. The continuous advancements in synthetic rubber formulations, providing better fuel efficiency, weather resistance, and performance, further contribute to its use in automotive applications. As automotive manufacturers focus on sustainability and innovation, the demand for synthetic rubber is expected to grow alongside the evolving automotive industry. For instance, in April 2023, Sinopec announced that it had increased the production capacity of styrene butadiene (SBC) by 170,000 tons per year. This increase was done in manufacturing sites located in Hainan, China. The purpose of the capacity expansion was to establish a presence in China.

https://www.prnewswire.com/ae/news-releases/sinopecs-styrene-butadiene-copolymer-sbc-project-with-170-000-tonsyear-production-capacity-goes-into-operation-301793271.html

Increasing Demand for Footwear and Consumer Goods To Boost Market Growth

The increasing demand for footwear and consumer goods is significantly driving the synthetic rubber market. Synthetic rubber is widely used in the production of shoe soles, insoles, and other footwear components due to its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. As the global footwear market expands, driven by rising consumer purchasing power and fashion trends, the demand for synthetic rubber grows. Moreover, synthetic rubber is a key material in various consumer goods, such as household items, sporting goods, and electronics, due to its versatility and performance characteristics. With growing consumer demand for these products, the need for synthetic rubber in manufacturing processes continues to rise. This trend supports the market's expansion and drives innovation in rubber formulations to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Restraint Factor for the Synthetic Rubber Market

Volatility in Raw Material Prices Will Limit Market Growth

Volatility in raw material prices is a significant restraint on the synthetic rubber market. Synthetic rubber is primarily derived from petrochemical products like styrene, butadiene, and isoprene, which are highly susceptible to fluctuations in crude oil prices and supply chain disruptions. When raw material costs rise, manufacturers face increased production expenses, which can lead to higher prices for synthetic rubber and its derivatives. This unpredictability can hinder investment in production and create uncertainty for consumers, as...

Learn about the projected growth of the global synthetic rubber market over the next decade, driven by increasing demand and expected to reach 28M tons in volume and $66.7B in value by 2035.

The global hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber market size was valued at more than USD 651.9 million in 2025 and is expected to register a CAGR of over 7.5% from 2026 to 2035, due to the rising demand from the oil and gas sector.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber market size will be USD 591.8 million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.00% from 2025 to 2033.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 218.97 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2025 to 2033.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 171.62 million.
APAC held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 142.03 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6% from 2025 to 2033.
South America has a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 22.49 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2025 to 2033.
The Middle East had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 23.67 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2025 to 2033.
Africa had a market share of around 1% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 13.02 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2025 to 2033.
HNBR Solid category is the fastest growing segment of the Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber industry

Market Dynamics of Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Market

Key Drivers for Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Market

Growing Demand for Oil and Gas Sealing Applications to Boost Market Growth

Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene (HNBR) is primarily used in sealing applications within the oil and gas industry, which is a key driver of the market. The need for reliable seals to withstand high temperatures, extreme pressures, and aggressive chemicals is essential in these industries. HNBR's superior chemical resistance, coupled with its high mechanical strength, makes it ideal for use in demanding environments, such as subsea operations, drilling, and high-performance automotive applications. As the global demand for energy continues to rise, particularly in the oil and gas sectors, the need for high-performance materials like HNBR for sealing systems becomes increasingly critical. This trend is expected to drive continued market growth as oil and gas companies strive for greater efficiency and reliability in their equipment, especially in offshore drilling, hydraulic systems, and pipeline sealing. For instance, in November 2022, Zeon Corporation boosted capacity for Zetpot HNBR at its Texas plant. This project is expected to enable the corporation to increase its capacity by 25%.

https://www.zeon.eu/newsroom/news/zeon-corporation-decides-to-increase-hydrogenated-nitrile-rubber-production-capacity-in-the-united-states.html

Increasing Advancements in Automotive Industry Applications To Boost Market Growth

The increasing focus on fuel efficiency and vehicle performance in the automotive industry is another key driver for the Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene (HNBR) market. HNBR's application in automotive seals, gaskets, and hoses is gaining traction due to its ability to resist degradation from high temperatures, oils, and fuels. As automotive manufacturers work towards developing vehicles with improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, the demand for durable, heat-resistant materials like HNBR grows. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles also presents new opportunities for HNBR, as these vehicles require high-performance seals and gaskets to withstand the extreme conditions of modern powertrains.

Restraint Factor for the Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber Market

High Production Costs, Will Limit Market Growth

The HNBR is a speciality material produced through the hydrogenation process, which requires expensive raw materials and advanced technology. The complexity of the hydrogenation process, involving the use of specific catalysts and controlled conditions, contributes to higher production costs compared to other types of synthetic rubbers. This cost factor makes HNBR more expensive for manufacturers to produce and use in various applications, such as automotive seals, gaskets, and industrial equipment. As a result, companies may hesitate to adopt HNBR in place of cheaper alternatives like regular ...

Learn about the expected growth of the natural rubber market over the next decade, driven by increasing global demand. Market performance is predicted to continue its upward trend, with a projected CAGR of +0.7% in volume and +1.3% in value by 2035.

During the second quarter of 2024, the silicone rubber prices in the United States reached 9463 USD/MT in June. The market for USA saw a noticeable price increase due to growing energy and output costs, alongside strong the need from the vehicle and building sectors. Despite Boeing’s distribution issues, stable inventory and robust sector performance supported the overall favorable pricing trend.

During the fourth quarter of 2024, the polybutadiene rubber (PBR) prices in the United States reached 2,072 USD/MT in December. The market witnessed steady pricing throughout the last quarter of 2024, with a moderate increase driven by stable demand from the automotive and tire sectors. Despite a slight price dip in early January due to weakening butadiene costs, market balance was maintained by sufficient supply levels, consistent supplier operations, and positive buyer sentiment.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of polybutadiene rubber (PBR) pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

Learn about the expected growth of the synthetic rubber market worldwide over the next decade, driven by increasing demand. Market performance is forecasted to continue on an upward trend with a projected CAGR of +0.6% in volume and +1.4% in value from 2024 to 2035.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global NBR Powder Market size will be USD 612.85 million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.40% from 2025 to 2033.

North America held the major market share for more than 37% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 116.44 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from 2025 to 2033.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 29% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 134.83 million.
APAC held a market share of around 24% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 300.30 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2025 to 2033.
South America has a market share of more than 3.8% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 23.29 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% from 2025 to 2033.
Middle East had a market share of around 4.00% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 24.51 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% from 2025 to 2033.
Africa had a market share of around 2.20% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 13.48 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2025 to 2033.
Construction category is the fastest growing segment of the NBR Powder industry.

Market Dynamics of NBR Powder Market

Key Drivers for NBR Powder Market

Rising demand of croos-linked NBR powder in PVC modification and automotive applications to Boost Market Growth

The market for nitrile butadiene rubber powder will expand rapidly due to the growing need for cross-linked NBR powder in PVC modification applications. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and phenolic resins are among the resins that are modified using cross-linked NBR powder. In thermoplastic compositions, it provides flexibility and impact resistance. The linear NBR powder finds use in hoses, gaskets, and seals, among other uses. Additionally, NBR powder is used in automotive applications for weather strips, interior moldings, friction materials, and car interior skins. On the other hand, the growing demand for friction materials due to the growing need for clutch facings, brake linings, disc pads, and railway brake blocks will support the expansion of the automotive application. To take advantage of the growing demand for NBR gloves, Malaysian glove manufacturers are increasing their production capabilities. With over 60% of the global market in terms of volume, Malaysia is currently the biggest producer of rubber gloves worldwide. Rubber glove exports are expected to reach 287 billion pieces by 2020, up from an estimated 228 billion in 2017. Exports are predicted to reach USD 4.8 billion in 2017, a strong 19.4% annual growth rate, up from USD 3.4 billion the year before.

https://www.aseanbriefing.com/news/opportunities-in-malaysias-rubber-glove-industry/

Increasing widespread demand from the car sector Boosts The Need For Advanced NBR Powder To Boost Market Growth

The automobile industry makes extensive use of NBR, with O-rings, belts, and cables being its most common applications. NBR is utilized in tire treads and sidewalls because it offers low rolling resistance and good abrasion, both of which guarantee excellent performance. In addition to these advantages, NBR is an inexpensive substitute for natural rubber that has better qualities. Thus, the automobile industry has an impact on the growth of the NBR market. Because of its exceptional durability and oil resistance, NBR is perfect for making hoses, gaskets, and seals—all of which are essential in automotive applications. Because NBR is compatible with modern materials, its use is being further stimulated by the growing trend towards electric vehicles.

Restraint Factor for the NBR Powder Market

Accessibility of alternative materials, Will Limit Market Growth

There are alternatives with comparable qualities to NBR, despite its affordability, durability, compression set resistance, high water swell resistance, tear strength, and oil and grease resistance. Natural rubber, fluoroelastomers, and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are examples of elastic materials that can be utilized in place of NBR in a variety of applications. NBR, for example, is not very resistant to ozonization. Therefore, TPE or fluoroelastomers can be used in ...

During the fourth quarter of 2024, the styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) prices in the United States reached 2291 USD/MT in December. Price reductions occurred in the market despite consistent demand from automotive and tire industries. Fluctuations in feedstock costs, particularly butadiene, influenced pricing, while limited production capacity kept supply tight. Market demand suffered due to economic uncertainty together with the cautious behavior of consumers that led to significant trends in market performance.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

Global natural rubber market analysis for 2024-2035: consumption to reach 16M tons, market value to hit $26.7B, with Thailand, Indonesia and China leading production and consumption.

In Q3 2025, North America, the Butyl Rubber Price Index fell by 1.71% quarter-over-quarter in Q3 2025, reflecting bearish supply-demand imbalance. Check detailed insights for Europe, MEA and APAC.

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