Record natural rubber deficit
ANRPC forecasts a 400,000-tonne shortfall on the world market. Prices have jumped 25% since January 2026, driven by China's automotive recovery.
Home/The Rubber Letter/June 2026
N1June 2026
The Rubber Letter
A $68.9bn global market, a 400,000 t natural rubber deficit and smart seals: our first monthly briefing.
From the editor
The rubber industry is going through a period of deep transformation. Between global tension over raw materials, exploding demand linked to electric vehicles and the smart-seal revolution, 2026 looks set to be a decisive year for sealing manufacturers.
Key figures
- $68.9bn
- Value of the global rubber market
- +8 %/year
- Forecast annual growth through 2035
- 400,000 t
- Global natural rubber deficit in 2026
Industry news
Prices expected to rise 20 to 30%
After years of underinvestment, many Asian producers have abandoned rubber trees. Weather disruption is worsening the strain on global supply.
Smart seals with built-in sensors
Real-time monitoring of pressure, temperature and wear. Predictive maintenance cuts unplanned downtime.
EVs: a boom in sealing demand
The rise of electric vehicles is boosting specialised seals. The automotive market is expected to reach $33.2bn by 2034 (+5.1%/year).
Trends & outlook
01
Sustainability & eco-design
Bio-based elastomers and green processes are booming. RSPO certification is growing strongly in Europe.
02
Local sourcing
Faced with logistics strain, manufacturers favour regional suppliers to secure production.
03
Electric vehicles
Vehicle electrification opens new markets: battery protection, thermal management, high voltage.
04
Industry 4.0
Connected seals with sensors for predictive maintenance and fewer production stoppages.
Technical tip of the month
Adapting your seals to the new constraints
- 01
Natural rubber shortage
Favour synthetic alternatives (EPDM, NBR, FKM) according to the application and chemical constraints.
- 02
Electric vehicles
Specify seals resistant to specific coolant fluids and high electrical voltages.
- 03
Rising prices
Plan your purchasing with buffer stocks and long-term framework contracts to secure your costs.
Did you know?
The French rubber industry generates €12.7bn in revenue across 225 companies and nearly 470 industrial sites. The sector will offer more than 1,000 jobs a year through 2030.
Information provided for guidance only; it does not constitute legal or regulatory advice.
Tell us the quantity, the material you need and the dimensions. We will come back to you quickly.