Malaysia's Natural Rubber Production Drops Sharply In April, Amid Weak Global Demand
Malaysia's natural rubber industry saw a significant decline in April 2025, with production plunging by 37.3% to 18,008 tonnes, compared to 28,739 tonnes in March, according to the latest data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM).
On a year-on-year basis, production was also down by 15.6%, with April 2024 recording 21,325 tonnes. DOSM noted that the smallholders sector remained the main contributor, accounting for 86% of national output, while estates contributed the remaining 14%.
Total NR stockpiles in April also shrank, falling 6.7% to 203,728 tonnes, down from 218,253 tonnes in March. The majority of the stock was held by rubber processors (87.6%), followed by rubber consumers (12.3%) and rubber estates (0.1%).
Meanwhile, exports of NR fell 31.7% to 35,901 tonnes in April, compared to 52,531 tonnes in March. Despite the decline, P.R. China remained the top export destination, accounting for 33.3% of Malaysia's rubber exports, followed by the United Arab Emirates (14.9%), Germany (14.2%), India (6.5%), and the United States (5.1%).
Exports of rubber-based products, including gloves, tyres, tubes, and rubber thread, also declined. Gloves, the top contributor, generated RM1.1 billion in export value in April—down 19.2% from RM1.3 billion in March.
The average price of key NR products weakened in April: Concentrated Latex fell by 7.0% to 647.20 sen/kg
Scrap rubber dropped by 15.8% to 641.27 sen/kg
Prices for all Standard Malaysian Rubber (S.M.R) grades also declined between 6.9% and 13.5%, reflecting softening global demand and market uncertainties.
The steep drop in production, exports, and prices signals growing pressure on Malaysia's rubber sector, which faces both seasonal challenges and weakening global demand. Market analysts suggest that demand recovery in major export markets and price stabilisation will be key factors to watch in the coming months. Related
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
5 hours ago
- The Sun
Rise of active ageing in Malaysia's workforce
MALAYSIA is transitioning into an ageing society. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), by 2030, 15% of the population will be aged 60 and above, officially classifying the country as an 'aged nation'. As of 2024, over 10% of the population fell into this category, with those above 70 forming a steadily increasing portion of the national demographic. That said, the trend of senior citizens continuing to work past 70 is becoming more visible as Malaysia slowly transforms into an ageing society. Instead of fading quietly into the background, many elderly Malaysians are showing they still have plenty to offer. Law and Institutional Reform Minister Datuk Azalina Othman Said has acknowledged this situation and proposed that the government study the possibility of extending the retirement age to 65, noting that many individuals remain active and capable well into their 60s. Many senior citizens are part of Malaysia's growing informal economy – selling goods, offering services or working part-time in shops, workshops or even as Grab drivers. Most senior citizens lack pensions or EPF savings, especially those who have spent their lives in informal or gig work. For them, continuing to work is not only a necessity but also a way to maintain their independence, routine and sense of dignity. At the same time, experts and social researchers are starting to recognise the value of this 'silver workforce'. These senior citizens bring decades of experience, practical knowledge and a strong work ethic. They also help reduce dependency on social welfare or family support systems, contributing to a more resilient society. Beyond just making a living There are several reasons why many Malaysians in their 70s and older continue to work. For most, it is a mix of financial needs, personal motivation and a deep sense of purpose. The main reasons that keep them going: Money matters: For many older Malaysians, retiring comfortably simply is not an option. While some have EPF savings, not everyone has had consistent access to it, particularly those who spent their lives working in informal sectors such as street vending, farming or cleaning. Even for those with EPF accounts, the funds often deplete within a few years, especially with the rising costs of essentials like food, rent and healthcare. Staying independent: Many senior citizens choose to keep working because they do not want to rely on their children or anyone else. Culturally, older generations often carry a strong sense of pride and responsibility. They believe in 'berdikari' (standing on one's own feet) and working allows them to continue making their own choices and living with dignity. Health and activity: Staying physically and mentally active is one of the best ways to age healthily. Working gives many seniors a reason to wake up early, move around, use their hands and engage with others. It keeps their minds alert and their bodies in motion. Research has shown that active ageing, which includes working, volunteering and social participation, can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, depression and memory loss. Many seniors say they feel younger when they are busy. Passion and habit: Some senior citizens keep working not because they have to but because they want to. After spending a lifetime doing something they enjoy, it is hard to simply stop. Their work has become a part of their identity. For these individuals, work is not a burden, it is a hobby, joy and way of connecting with the world. Towards an age-friendly society In many urban households, retirees can be found working as Grab drivers, security guards, gardeners or even running small businesses selling handmade crafts or homemade food. These individuals defy the stereotype of the frail, passive elderly. They are strong, capable and motivated. Yet, despite these inspiring stories, challenges persist. Ageism in hiring practices, coupled with a lack of age-friendly infrastructure and insufficient support systems, continues to hinder the full potential of active ageing in Malaysia. Policymakers, employers and civil society must work together to create an inclusive environment where senior citizens are valued as contributors, not seen as burdens. This includes: Promoting flexible, part-time job opportunities for seniors; Providing healthcare and wellness programmes tailored to the elderly; Encouraging lifelong learning and digital literacy; Building public spaces and transport that are accessible to older adults. Moving forward: Respect, support and inclusion Malaysia's older generation is not stepping aside but they are stepping up. Whether driven by necessity, passion or the desire to stay active, many senior citizens over the age of 70 continue to contribute meaningfully to society. Their presence in markets, small businesses and local communities serves as a powerful reminder that ageing is not a limitation but a testament to resilience and vitality. As our nation transitions into an ageing nation, it is time to change the way we think about growing older. Supporting them is more than a kind gesture; it is a shared responsibility. By creating inclusive policies, promoting age-friendly workplaces, ensuring accessible healthcare and strengthening social protection, we can empower older Malaysians to age with dignity. At the same time, we can build a more caring and forward-looking nation. Dr Ong Ai Ling is a member of the Active Ageing Impact Lab and senior lecturer at Taylor's University. Comments: letters@
Barnama
5 hours ago
- Barnama
Malaysia Wholesale, Retail Trade Sales Reached RM151.7 Bln In April 2025 -- DOSM
REGION - CENTRAL > NEWS KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's April 2025 wholesale and retail trade registered total sales of RM151.7 billion, reflecting a 4.7 per cent growth year-on-year (y-o-y), according to the Statistics Department Malaysia (DOSM). In a statement today, its chief statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said growth was primarily supported by the performance of the wholesale and retail trade sub-sectors. 'The wholesale trade sub-sector registered RM67.3 billion in sales, an increase of RM3.5 billion or 5.5 per cent y-o-y, reflecting steady business activity across supply chains. bootstrap slideshow 'The retail trade sub-sector recorded RM66.8 billion, up RM3.0 billion or 4.7 per cent y-o-y, in line with increased consumer spending during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri month,' he said. April's online retail sales showed an increase, with the index rising by 6.3 per cent y-o-y, he said. 'However, for seasonal adjustment, the index recorded a month-on-month growth of -1.2 per cent,' he said. In terms of volume index, he said wholesale and retail trade recorded a 4.3 per cent y-o-y rise, driven by a 6.6 per cent and a 3.4 per cent increase in the wholesale and retail trade sub-sector. Complementing the trade growth, he said Malaysia's digital payment transactions recorded strong y-o-y increases in April 2025. 'E-money transactions rose by 68.7 per cent to RM19.7 billion, reflecting higher usage in micro and retail payments.
The Star
5 hours ago
- The Star
Expanded SST risks Malaysia's food security, trade credibility
As Malaysia prepares to roll out a sweeping expansion of the Sales and Services Tax (SST) on July 1, 2025, policymakers must confront an uncomfortable question: Are we compromising national food security in pursuit of short-term revenue gains? The Finance Ministry argues that the expanded SST, which broadens the tax base and updates taxable goods and services, is necessary to strengthen the government's fiscal position. But in doing so, it risks overlooking deeper vulnerabilities in our economic structure, especially in the realm of food imports and household food access. For a country that imported over RM75.6bil in food in 2022, according to Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), this new tax regime could be a costly misstep.
