On December 9, the Vietnam Rubber Association (VRA) held the Vietnam Rubber Industry International Conference and a seminar on global trends and prospects, focusing on how the rubber industry can adapt to future market fluctuations and pursue sustainable development.
This event served as a vital forum for stakeholders in the rubber value chain — from producers to buyers — to discuss market outlooks, share expertise, and strengthen domestic and international business connections.
Enhancing Industry Connectivity and Global Competitiveness
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The conference fostered collaboration among Vietnamese rubber producers and traders, providing a platform for networking and knowledge exchange in the context of a rapidly evolving “new normal.”
In his opening remarks, Mr. Trần Ngọc Thuận, Chairman of the VRA, noted that global natural rubber (NR) production in 2022 was estimated at 14.3 million tons, up 2.1% year-on-year, while global consumption reached 14.8 million tons, also rising 2.1% compared to 2021.
Vietnam’s Rubber Exports Continue to Grow
For Vietnam, during the first ten months of 2022, rubber exports were estimated at 1.6 million tons valued at USD 2.6 billion, up 8.5% in volume and 4.6% in value year-on-year.
By the end of 2022, the total export turnover of Vietnam’s rubber sector was projected to reach USD 10.2 billion, including approximately 2 million tons of natural rubber exports.
Insights from Global Rubber Experts
At the seminar, international and domestic experts presented key analyses, including:
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Dr. Leksmi Nair, Senior Economist at the International Rubber Research Organization (IRSG) — on “Global Rubber Market Trends and Future Impacts.”
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Mr. Võ Hoàng An, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the VRA — on “Achievements and Prospects of Vietnam’s Rubber Industry.”
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Mr. Zheng Wenrong, Executive Vice President of the China Natural Rubber Association — on “Development and Prospects of China’s Natural Rubber Sector.”
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Mr. Jom Jacob, Chief Analyst and Co-founder of WhatNext Rubber Media International — on “Global Natural Rubber Price Signals for 2023.”
Recognition for Excellence and Brand Development
During the event, the VRA honored member enterprises that achieved outstanding performance and were granted the right to use the “Vietnam Rubber” certification mark.
In total, 19 enterprises received this recognition for 89 certified products produced across 31 rubber processing plants.
In addition, VRA presented certificates of merit to enterprises recognized as “Reputable Exporters of 2021” and those listed among the Top 100 Sustainable Companies of 2022.
Strengthening the Vietnam Rubber Brand
Mr. Nguyễn Quốc Toản, Director of the Department of Agro-Processing and Market Development under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), praised the VRA’s role in promoting industry branding:
“The ‘Vietnam Rubber’ certification mark is a remarkable milestone for the country’s agricultural sector. The VRA is the first association to operate a certification mark system with such professionalism, credibility, and clear governance. This initiative is not only a symbol of quality but also an important bridge connecting Vietnamese rubber enterprises, contributing to the industry’s sustainable growth.”