Skip to main content

Advertisement

Niaga SPOTLIGHT: Labour day 2026 rubber industry prospects

Niaga SPOTLIGHT: Labour day 2026 rubber industry prospects

Natural rubber prices are on the uptick amid the West Asia armed conflict raising global prices and demand, and Malaysia’s rubber sector—where labour intensive smallholders account for nearly 88% of production—is facing a pivotal test.

Can stronger prices, sustainability compliance under EUDR, and a reset in the downstream glove industry translate into long-term competitiveness?

Tehmina Kaoosji speaks with Dato’ Dr. Zairossani Mohd Nor, Director General of the Malaysian Rubber Board, (LGM) on the opportunities and fault lines shaping the sector’s 2026 outlook—including why Malaysia still holds over 60% of the global rubber glove market despite mounting pressures.