NEWS

On February 22, 2026, specialized technical research findings in the general synthetic rubber sector were officially released. The research focuses on Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Butadiene Rubber (BR), two core categories accounting for the largest output and application share in the industrial system. It conducts a high-precision technical comparison across four dimensions: molecular structure nature, core performance parameters, processing technology characteristics, and downstream application matching, providing systematic technical reference for raw material selection and formulation design in industries such as tires, footwear materials, shock absorption & sealing, and industrial rubber products.

Synthetic rubber industrial upgrading is directly linked to the raw material security and industrial chain stability of strategic emerging industries such as new energy vehicles, high-end equipment and aerospace. In May 2026, the 2026 Synthetic Rubber Industry Operation Analysis Conference & Seminar on the Release of the 15th Five-Year Development Plan for the Synthetic Rubber Industry was held. A number of industry experts and institutional representatives discussed the industry’s development path, and clarified that during the 15th Five-Year Plan period for China’s synthetic rubber industry, differentiation, high-end upgrading and green development will be taken as the core development directions, focusing on the upgrading demand of downstream application ends to promote the overall competitiveness of the industry.

Based on 2025–2026 global rubber industry statistics and formulation practices, this article systematically compares natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and compounded rubber across material composition, physical performance, cost structure, and environmental impact. It further delivers targeted material selection guidelines for tire manufacturing scenarios, providing a reliable reference for tire producers, industrial buyers, and engineering teams to optimize material formulations, balance product performance, and control procurement costs.

​Executive Summary: China's Rubber Industry Enters High-Quality Development Phase China's rubber industry has achieved a historic transformation from scale expansion to quality improvement during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). According to the China Rubber Industry Association, the sector recorded a 26.7% increase in main business revenue, a 41.2% rise in export value, and a 14.4% growth in profits. As the world's largest rubber producer and consumer, China now faces the critical 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), with strategic priorities focusing on high-end breakthroughs, green transformation, and global industry leadership. Synthetic rubber remains a core segment of China's rubber industry. In 2024, China's synthetic rubber imports reached 1.402 million tons, representing a 10.8% year-on-year increase, with styrene-butadiene rubber accounting for the largest share at 28%. Exports amounted to 819,000 tons, and apparent consumption reached 5.878 million tons. UN Comtrade data confirms China's position as the world's largest synthetic rubber importer and the second-largest exporter, trailing only South Korea.

June 2026 — China's synthetic rubber market is experiencing a period of volatile adjustment. Latest data from industry research firms Zhuochuang Information and Longzhong Information shows that SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) and BR (Butadiene Rubber) prices have gradually stabilized after a phased decline, driven by multiple factors including macroeconomic conditions, crude oil price fluctuations, and supply-demand dynamics. The market has entered a phase where prices are more likely to rise than fall. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of current supply-demand conditions, cost-side changes, and market outlook to support procurement decision-making for rubber product enterprises.

Industrial rubber materials are fundamental components for sealing, transmission and vibration damping in manufacturing, automotive, metallurgy and hydraulic systems. This guide systematically covers 16 mainstream rubber elastomers, including their core properties, operating temperature ranges, advantages, limitations and typical industrial applications. Compiled by our in-house engineering team based on industry-standard material specifications, it serves as a practical reference for procurement engineers, maintenance technicians and product designers to select the most suitable rubber material for specific working conditions.