Malaysian Rubber Market Ends Mixed Amidst Regional Uptrend

Strategic Insights -

The Malaysian rubber market concluded today in a mixed state due to the upward movement in regional rubber futures markets and higher crude oil prices. Market sentiment was also boosted by the optimism surrounding the ongoing US-China trade talks and the improvement in China's economic data. Japanese rubber futures experienced a rise as US and Chinese officials prepared to resume trade negotiations in London.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Malaysian rubber market was influenced by regional rubber futures markets and crude oil prices, resulting in a mixed outcome.
  • Market sentiment was positively affected by the optimism surrounding the US-China trade talks and China's improved economic data.
  • China's exports surged 12.4% year-on-year (y-o-y) and 8.1% in March and April, while imports dropped 3.4% y-o-y.
  • US seaborne imports of goods from China declined 28.5% year-over-year in May, the sharpest drop since the pandemic, as a result of Trump's 145% tariff.
  • US seaborne imports in May decreased 7.2% from the year earlier to 2.18 million.
  • The price of Standard Malaysian Rubber 20 (SMR 20) rose by 11.5 sen to 706.50 sen per kilogramme (kg), while latex in bulk dropped by 5.0 sen to 590.50 sen per kg.
  • The recovery in rubber markets was limited due to weaker US economic data.

Statistics:

  • China's exports surged 12.4% year-on-year (y-o-y) and 8.1% in March and April, respectively.
  • China's imports dropped 3.4% y-o-y.
  • US seaborne imports of goods from China declined 28.5% year-over-year in May.
  • US seaborne imports in May decreased to 2.18 million, down 7.2% from the year earlier.
  • The price of Standard Malaysian Rubber 20 (SMR 20) increased by 11.5 sen to 706.50 sen per kilogramme (kg).
  • Latex in bulk dropped by 5.0 sen to 590.50 sen per kilogramme (kg).

Sources:

  • BERNAMA News Agency (10 Jun 2025)
  • Malaysian Rubber Board (reported at 3 pm)