Thailand Maintains Its Leading Position in Global Rubber Exports
As the world’s largest exporter of natural rubber, Thailand continues to hold a strong position in the global market and enters 2022 with renewed optimism.
According to the Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT), the country expects to produce 4.9 million tons of natural rubber this year — up 1.82% from 2021. In the first quarter alone, exports are projected to reach 1.1 million tons, an increase of 4.29% year-on-year.
Thailand accounts for roughly one-third of global natural rubber output each year. The RAOT also forecasts 4.22 million tons of exports in 2022, up 2% from the previous year.
Demand Growth from Automotive and Medical Industries
RAOT official Athiwee Dangkanit noted that Thailand’s rubber exports will continue to benefit from rising global demand—particularly from the automotive sector and medical glove production, both of which expanded rapidly during the Covid-19 pandemic.
She added that low rubber inventory levels at Qingdao Port (a major hub for rubber imports in eastern China) are creating favorable export opportunities for Thailand. Stocks there dropped sharply in 2021 due to shipping delays and high logistics costs.
In early 2022, Thai rubber exports are expected to increase by 4.29%, while global inventories may continue to decline in line with reduced reserves at Qingdao.
Global Outlook: Production Still Trails Consumption
The Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) estimates global rubber output at 14.55 million tons and consumption at 14.39–14.82 million tons. Consumption is projected to rise by 2–5%, meaning production could fall short of demand in 2022.
Supportive factors include favorable weather conditions and continued Covid-related demand for medical gloves and protective equipment.
However, several challenges could weigh on the market:
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The global semiconductor shortage, which hampers automobile production;
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Container scarcity and rising shipping costs;
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Delays in customs clearance, further straining supply chains.