Global Synthetic Rubber Trade Analysis Under HS Code 4002 (2024–25)

Synthetic rubber is one of the most indispensable industrial materials in the modern global economy. From automobile tires and industrial belts to footwear, adhesives, medical products, and construction materials, synthetic rubber supports critical manufacturing ecosystems worldwide. Unlike natural rubber, synthetic rubber is engineered from petrochemical feedstocks, allowing manufacturers to tailor performance characteristics such as durability, elasticity, oil resistance, and temperature tolerance.

Under the international Harmonized System, synthetic rubber is classified under HS Code 4002, making it one of the most closely monitored product categories in global trade statistics. According to the latest trade data, global synthetic rubber imports reached USD 28.49 billion in 2024, while global exports stood at USD 27.74 billion, reflecting steady growth despite market volatility. Together, HS Code 4002 trade accounted for approximately USD 56.23 billion in 2024–25, highlighting the strategic importance of this segment.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Synthetic Rubber Import and export trends, key markets, pricing dynamics, risks, and future outlook using the latest HS Code 4002 data.

What Is HS Code 4002?

HS Code 4002 covers synthetic rubber and oil-derived rubber in primary forms, including liquids, plates, sheets, and strips. It represents raw and semi-processed rubber materials used by downstream manufacturers across multiple industries.

Products Included Under HS Code 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 classified under rubber

Products Excluded

• Natural rubber (HS 4001)

• Finished rubber articles such as tires, belts, hoses

• Vulcanized rubber products

Because HS Code 4002 captures industrial raw material trade, it is widely used as a leading indicator of downstream manufacturing activity, especially in the automotive and industrial sectors.

Global Synthetic Rubber Trade Overview (2024–25)

In 2024, global trade in synthetic rubber under HS Code 4002 was valued between USD 38–40 billion, with total volumes exceeding 16 million metric tons. While overall trade volumes remained relatively stable compared to 2023, regional shifts and supply chain realignments significantly influenced trade flows.

Key Global Metrics (2024)

• Total export value: USD 38–40 billion

• Total export volume: 16.2 million metric tons

• Average price: USD 2,350–2,450 per metric ton

• Automotive sector share: 65%

The automotive and tire manufacturing industry continues to dominate demand, accounting for nearly two-thirds of total synthetic rubber consumption globally.

Top Synthetic Rubber Importing Countries

Global Synthetic Rubber Import patterns reveal strong demand concentration in Asia, North America, and Europe. Rapid industrialization, vehicle production, and infrastructure expansion remain the primary drivers.

1. China – USD 8.90 Billion (31.3%)

China is the world’s largest Synthetic Rubber Import market, accounting for nearly one-third of global imports. Massive automotive production, tire manufacturing capacity, and chemical processing industries fuel sustained demand. China’s role as both a major importer and exporter underscores its central position in global rubber supply chains.

2. United States – USD 1.40 Billion (4.9%)

The U.S. ranks second, supported by strong automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. Increasing adoption of high-performance and eco-friendly rubber compounds has further strengthened HS Code 4002 Synthetic Rubber Import demand.

3. Thailand – USD 1.36 Billion (4.8%)

Thailand’s automotive and electronics manufacturing hubs drive consistent synthetic rubber imports. Its strategic location in Southeast Asia also supports re-export and regional supply chain integration.

4. India – USD 1.33 Billion (4.7%)

India is one of the fastest-growing Synthetic Rubber Import markets globally. Rising vehicle production, infrastructure development, healthcare expansion, and footwear manufacturing continue to boost demand under HS Code 4002.

5. Belgium – USD 1.19 Billion (4.2%)

Belgium serves as a major European distribution hub for synthetic rubber, supported by advanced logistics infrastructure and strong chemical processing industries.

Other notable importers include Germany, Vietnam, Malaysia, Türkiye, and Indonesia, each benefiting from diversified industrial bases and growing domestic consumption.

Top Synthetic Rubber Exporting Countries

Synthetic Rubber Export data shows a competitive and diversified supplier landscape, with Asia-Pacific countries playing a dominant role.

1. South Korea – USD 3.14 Billion (11.4%)

South Korea leads global exports under HS Code 4002 Synthetic Rubber Export, backed by advanced petrochemical facilities, technological expertise, and strong regional trade networks.

2. Thailand – USD 2.87 Billion (10.4%)

Thailand combines cost-efficient production with proximity to major Asian markets, making it a top exporter of general-purpose and specialty synthetic rubbers.

3. United States – USD 2.64 Billion (9.5%)

The U.S. remains a key exporter, particularly of high-performance and specialty grades used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications.

4. China – USD 2.22 Billion (8%)

China’s vast manufacturing base enables it to meet both domestic demand and export requirements, strengthening its global presence in HS Code 4002 data.

5. Japan – USD 2.11 Billion (7.6%)

Japan’s exports are driven by innovation, quality control, and premium rubber grades designed for high-precision applications.

Vietnam, Germany, Russia, Belgium, and Taiwan also feature prominently, reflecting growing geographic diversification in global synthetic rubber supply.

Synthetic Rubber Trade Trends Over the Last Decade

Over the past ten years, trade data for HS Code 4002 reveals cyclical demand patterns influenced by oil prices, automotive production, and global economic conditions.

• Imports peaked in 2022 at USD 32.32 billion

• Pandemic-related disruptions affected 2020–21 trade

• 2024 saw recovery with USD 28.49 billion in imports

• 2025 projections indicate slight normalization

Despite short-term volatility, long-term fundamentals remain strong, supported by industrial growth and mobility needs.

Regional Trade Patterns

Asia-Pacific

• Accounts for over 55% of global trade

• Driven by China, Japan, South Korea, India, and ASEAN

• Strong automotive and electronics manufacturing integration

Europe

• Represents approximately 25% of global trade

• Focus on specialty and high-performance elastomers

• Strong intra-EU trade flows

North America

• Accounts for 15% of global trade

• Driven by automotive supply chains across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada

Emerging regions such as Latin America and the Middle East are witnessing steady growth due to tire manufacturing expansion.

Key End-Use Industries

This heavy reliance on automotive demand makes Synthetic Rubber Export volumes sensitive to vehicle production cycles.

Pricing Trends and Cost Drivers

In 2024–25, average prices ranged between USD 2,200 and USD 2,600 per metric ton, depending on grade and region.

Key cost drivers include:

• Crude oil and naphtha prices

• Butadiene availability

• Energy and transportation costs

• Environmental compliance regulations

Specialty rubbers traded at significant premiums, offering higher margins for exporters.

Trade Challenges and Risks

Despite stable demand, several challenges impact HS Code 4002 Synthetic Rubber Import and export flows:

• Feedstock price volatility

• Overcapacity in Asia

• Environmental compliance costs

• Geopolitical trade restrictions

• Logistics and shipping disruptions

These risks are pushing companies toward diversified sourcing and long-term supply contracts.

Outlook for 2025–26

The global synthetic rubber trade outlook remains cautiously optimistic:

• Expected annual demand growth of 3–4%

• Strong expansion in India, Southeast Asia, and Mexico

• Rising demand for specialty and low-emission rubber grades

• Gradual shift toward sustainable and bio-based elastomers

Electric vehicle adoption may change tire specifications, but overall rubber demand remains robust.

Conclusion

Synthetic rubber under HS Code 4002 is far more than a commodity—it is a strategic industrial input essential to global manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure. As supply chains evolve and sustainability gains importance, understanding HS Code 4002 data, export data, and trade data is critical for manufacturers, traders, and policymakers alike.

Tracking Synthetic Rubber Import and export trends enables businesses to manage risk, identify growth markets, and remain competitive in an increasingly complex global trade environment.

For access to live HS Code 4002 Synthetic Rubber Export and import statistics by country, visit TradeImeX or contact info@tradeimex.in for customized market intelligence.