Malaysia's natural rubber (NR) production experienced a slight decline in August 2024 compared to the previos month of July 2024, but remained higher compared to the same period last year. Smallholders continued to be the primary contributors to production, while exports of NR-based products increased significantly.
The total NR stock decreased in August, with the majority held by rubber processor factories. China remained the top export destination for Malaysian NR, followed by the UAE, Germany, the US, and India. Gloves were the leading rubber-based export product, accounting for a significant portion of export value.
The Kuala Lumpur rubber market saw mixed price trends in August, with concentrated latex and scrap prices declining slightly. However, market sentiment was supported by gains in regional rubber futures markets due to concerns about supply disruptions and positive economic indicators.