In Q1 2024, the price trend of Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) in the APAC region experienced a positive trajectory due to several factors. A strong rebound in industrial activities, particularly in the automotive and construction sectors, drove demand for NBR, which is widely used in hoses, seals, and gaskets. Additionally, supply constraints from key producers, coupled with rising raw material costs such as butadiene and acrylonitrile, contributed to the price increase. The ongoing economic recovery and expanding end-use industries also supported higher NBR prices in the region. In contrast, the European NBR market witnessed a more stable downward trend due to a slowdown in demand, high inventory levels, and easing raw material prices, resulting in less pressure on market prices across the region.
In Q2 2024, the European Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) market saw a positive price trend, primarily fuelled by rising raw material costs, including butadiene and acrylonitrile, which experienced price hikes due to supply constraints and increased global demand. Additionally, inflationary pressures across Europe further escalated production costs, pushing NBR prices upward. The automotive and industrial sectors, key consumers of NBR, also saw moderate recovery in demand, contributing to the price increase despite ongoing economic uncertainties in the region. Whereas the APAC region experienced a stable yet decreased price trend, with sufficient supply and lower feedstock costs, alongside stable demand from key industries like automotive and industrial manufacturing.
By early Q3 2024, the Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) market experienced a bullish trend with around 1990 USDMT FOB Busan prices, due to limited stock and increased demand in the domestic as well as from international market.
Looking ahead to Q4 2024, Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) prices are expected to decline due to seasonal demand reductions, particularly in colder regions where harsh weather slows down key industries like automotive and construction. This seasonal drop may result in oversupply, causing prices to dip. A recovery in NBR prices is expected in warmer months, as demand from these sectors typically rebounds.