Malaysia’s natural rubber industry faltered in April 2025, with production plunging to its lowest level in recent years amid deep-rooted structural challenges and seasonal headwinds. Despite the government’s sustained push to revitalise the smallholder-driven sector, a shortage of tappers and shifting rural labour priorities—particularly during the durian season—have exposed the sector’s fragility.
Highlights
• April NR production plunges 37.3% month-on-month
• Exports fall sharply; glove shipments dip 19.2% to US$258.9 mn
• Imports too decline despite tapering NR production