Synthetic rubber is a critical industrial material that underpins global manufacturing, mobility, and infrastructure. From automobile tires and industrial belts to footwear, adhesives, hoses, and medical products, synthetic rubber plays a foundational role across industries. Under the international Harmonized System (HS), synthetic rubber is classified under HS Code 4002, making it one of the most closely tracked rubber product categories in global trade. According to the latest global trade data and synthetic rubber import data, the total value of global synthetic rubber imports reached $28.49 billion in 2024, a 4% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, the total value of global rubber exports reached $27.74 billion in 2024, a 2% increase from the previous year, as per the synthetic rubber export data.
The total synthetic rubber trade value under HS Code 4002 accounted for $56.23 billion in 2024-25. In the 2024–25 period, trade in HS Code 4002 reflects shifting demand patterns, evolving supply chains, energy price volatility, and structural changes in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. This report provides a detailed, data-driven analysis of global synthetic rubber imports and exports, highlighting top trading countries, market trends, pricing dynamics, and outlook.
What Is HS Code 4002?
HS Code 4002 covers synthetic rubber and fabric derived from oils, in primary forms such as liquids, plates, sheets, or strips.
Products included under HS 4002:
- Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)
- Butadiene rubber (BR)
- Isoprene rubber (IR)
- Chloroprene rubber (CR)
- Nitrile rubber (NBR)
- Ethylene-propylene rubber (EPDM)
- Oil-extended synthetic rubber
- Thermoplastic elastomers
Products excluded:
- Natural rubber (HS 4001)
- Rubber articles (tires, hoses, belts)
- Vulcanized rubber products
HS 4002 primarily represents industrial raw material trade, making it a strong indicator of downstream manufacturing activity.
Global Synthetic Rubber Trade Overview (2024–25)
Global Trade Value Snapshot
In 2024, global trade in HS Code 4002 synthetic rubber was valued at approximately USD 38–40 billion, with total traded volumes exceeding 16 million metric tons. Trade levels remained broadly stable compared to 2023, with regional shifts rather than absolute growth driving changes. The global synthetic rubber market is forecasted at $62 billion by 2037.
Key global metrics (2024 estimates):
- Total export value: USD 38–40 billion
- Total export volume: 16.2 million metric tons
- Average global price: USD 2,350–2,450 per metric ton
- Share of automotive sector demand: 65%
The global synthetic rubber market remains tightly linked to automotive tire manufacturing, which alone accounts for nearly two-thirds of consumption.
Top Synthetic Rubber Importing Countries
Synthetic rubber imports by country reveal the top synthetic rubber-importing countries in the global market. The demand for synthetic rubber continues to grow, leading to significant import activities across various nations. Understanding the trends and key players in synthetic rubber imports by country can provide valuable insights for businesses looking to capitalize on international trade opportunities. The top 10 synthetic rubber-importing countries, as per the data on synthetic rubber importers & synthetic rubber import statistics for 2024-25, include:
1. China: $8.90 billion (31.3%) – The rapid growth of the automotive industry in China has been a major driver of the country’s synthetic rubber imports.
2. USA: $1.40 billion (4.9%) – The United States’ robust manufacturing sector, particularly in automotive and aerospace, has fueled the demand for synthetic rubber.
3. Thailand: $1.36 billion (4.8%) – Strong presence in the automotive and electronics industries drives the demand for synthetic rubber.
4. India: $1.33 billion (4.7%) – The growing automotive sector coupled with the expansion of construction and healthcare industries has propelled the demand for synthetic rubber.
5. Belgium: $1.19 billion (4.2%) – A key trading hub for synthetic rubber, bolstered by its robust chemical industry.
6. Germany: $1.12 billion (3.9%) – An advanced automotive and industrial machinery sector leads to high demand for synthetic rubber.
7. Vietnam: $1.11 billion (3.9%) – The booming manufacturing sector in electronics and textiles has fueled the demand for synthetic rubber.
8. Malaysia: $866.45 million (3%) – A well-developed rubber industry coupled with strong ties to automotive and electronics drives its imports.
9. Türkiye: $842.74 million (3%) – A diverse industrial base, including automotive and textiles, fuels its demand for synthetic rubber.
10. Indonesia: $793 million (2.8%) – The growing automotive and infrastructure sectors have been instrumental in driving the demand for synthetic rubber.
Top Synthetic Rubber Exporting Countries
Synthetic rubber exports by country are a crucial aspect of the global rubber industry. The top 10 synthetic rubber-exporting countries for 2024-25 include:
1. South Korea: $3.14 billion (11.4%) – A powerhouse in synthetic rubber exports due to a strong manufacturing base.
2. Thailand: $2.87 billion (10.4%) – Competitive labor costs and well-developed infrastructure enhance its export capabilities.
3. USA: $2.64 billion (9.5%) – Advanced technology gives it a competitive edge in the elastic materials market.
4. China: $2.22 billion (8%) – Large manufacturing base and competitive costs drive its exports.
5. Japan: $2.11 billion (7.6%) – Strong technological capabilities bolster its presence in the export market.
6. Vietnam: $2.08 billion (7.5%) – Low labor costs and strategic location also aid its export growth.
7. Germany: $1.58 billion (5.7%) – Focus on quality and innovation helps maintain its market leadership.
8. Russia: $1.55 billion (5.6%) – Its abundant natural resources provide a competitive advantage in the industry.
9. Belgium: $1.30 billion (4.7%) – Strategic location and well-developed infrastructure attract manufacturing.
10. Taiwan: $1.10 billion (4%) – Strong manufacturing base and focus on technology support its export activities.
Synthetic Rubber Import-Export in the Last 10 Years: Yearly HS Code 4002 Trade Data
| Year of Trade | Synthetic Rubber Imports ($) | Synthetic Rubber Exports ($) |
| 2015 | $20.17 billion | $17.59 billion |
| 2016 | $20.88 billion | $18.76 billion |
| 2017 | $28.02 billion | $25.51 billion |
| 2018 | $27.76 billion | $25.12 billion |
| 2019 | $24.98 billion | $22.80 billion |
| 2020 | $22.29 billion | $20.99 billion |
| 2021 | $30.89 billion | $28.82 billion |
| 2022 | $32.32 billion | $30.24 billion |
| 2023 | $26.73 billion | $25.28 billion |
| 2024 | $28.49 billion | $27.74 billion |
| 2025 (projected) | $26 billion | $24 billion |
Regional Trade Patterns
Asia-Pacific
- Accounts for over 55% of the global synthetic rubber trade
- Driven by China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Southeast Asia
- Strong integration with automotive and electronics manufacturing
Europe
- Accounts for 25% of global trade
- Emphasis on specialty, high-performance elastomers
- Strong intra-EU trade flows
North America
- Accounts for 15% of global trade
- Trade driven by automotive supply chains between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada
Latin America & the Middle East
Key End-Use Industries Driving HS Code 4002 Trade
| Industry | Share of Demand |
| Automotive & Tires | 65% |
| Industrial Rubber Goods | 15% |
| Footwear | 7% |
| Consumer Products | 6% |
| Medical & Specialty | 4% |
| Others | 3% |
Price Trends and Cost Drivers (2024–25)
Key Pricing Influences:
- Crude oil and naphtha prices
- Butadiene availability
- Energy and transportation costs
- Regional supply disruptions
- Environmental regulations
In 2024, average synthetic rubber prices ranged between USD 2,200 and USD 2,600 per metric ton, depending on grade and region.
Trade Challenges and Risks
- Volatility in petrochemical feedstock prices
- Environmental compliance costs
- Overcapacity in Asia
- Trade disruptions
- Geopolitical trade restrictions
Outlook for 2025–26
The global synthetic rubber trade outlook remains stable with moderate growth:
- Demand growth expected at 3–4% annually
- Strong expansion in India, Southeast Asia, and Mexico
- Increasing demand for specialty and low-emission rubber grades
Key Takeaways
- HS Code 4002 represents a USD 40 billion global trade market
- China is both the largest exporter and importer
- Automotive manufacturing drives over 60% of demand
- India is one of the fastest-growing import markets
- Specialty synthetic rubber offers higher margins and growth potential
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, synthetic rubber under HS Code 4002 is far more than a commodity. It is a strategic industrial input tied directly to global manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure growth. As supply chains evolve and sustainability considerations rise, the structure of the global synthetic rubber trade will continue to shift.
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