Polybutadiene Rubber Pricing Assessment
UNSPC: 13101719

polybutadiene rubber Markets Covered: 

usUnited States
frFrance
deGermany
krKorea
saSaudi Arabia
cnChina
inIndia

polybutadiene rubber Markets Covered: 

Global polybutadiene rubber Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q1 2025, the global Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market exhibited an inclined trend, driven by growing demand from the automotive and tire manufacturing industries. Prices for High Cis PBR in South Korea reached USD 2,000/MT FOB Busan, reflecting a 3.5% increase from the previous quarter. This upward movement was supported by tighter supply in key regions, especially in Asia-Pacific and Europe, coupled with rising production costs. Additionally, strong export demand, particularly from emerging markets, further bolstered the market. The price increase was also fuelled by the stable recovery in global manufacturing activities and steady consumption in the automotive sector.  

In Q4 2024, the global Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market showed an overall positive trend, with prices increasing across most regions except the Saudi market, which remained stable due to regional supply conditions. Strong demand from industries such as automotive and tire manufacturing drove the global price increase. In South Korea, High Cis PBR was priced at USD 1,935/MT FOB Busan with 3.7% increase, reflecting an upward movement due to robust demand from both domestic and export markets. This was supported by tightening supply in some regions, coupled with favourable market conditions in Asia-Pacific and Europe. The price increases were more pronounced in regions outside of Saudi Arabia, where demand dynamics remained stable.  

In Q3 2024, the global Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market showed a mixed trend. The APAC region experienced a stable market, with only minor fluctuations in prices due to steady demand and balanced supply. In contrast, both the European and North American markets saw an upward trend, driven by stronger demand from automotive and tire manufacturing sectors, particularly for high-performance rubber grades. In the APAC region, High Cis PBR was priced at USD 1,870/MT FOB Busan, reflecting a 0.3% dip in market prices. This slight decline was attributed to weaker demand in some local industries and inventory adjustments. However, the overall stability in APAC was offset by higher prices in Europe and North America, indicating a regional divergence in market conditions. The mixed market trend highlighted varying demand dynamics across regions while maintaining some price stability in the APAC market. 

In Q2 2024, the global Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market saw an increase, driven by rising demand from the automotive sector, particularly for tires in electric vehicles. The PBR High Cis prices get stabilized around USD 1870/MT FOB Busan showing approximately 10% rise. PBR’s use in other products like golf balls, conveyor belts, and footwear also contributed to its growth. Environmental regulations promoting sustainable materials and innovations in PBR formulations further boosted the market. Additionally, supply chain disruptions and fluctuating raw material costs like Butadiene played a role in the price rise and higher consumption during this period. 

In Q1 2024, the price trend of Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) in the APAC and European region showed an upward movement due to several key factors. A significant recovery in industrial activities, especially within the automotive and construction sectors, fuelled the demand for PBR, commonly used in Tire manufacturing and various other rubber applications. The PBR High Cis prices get stabilized around USD 1700/MT FOB Busan showing 0.1% rise. Supply constraints from major producers, along with increasing raw material costs, such as Butadiene, further pushed prices higher. The region’s ongoing economic recovery and growing end-use industries also supported this price escalation. 

India polybutadiene rubber Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2025, the Indian Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market experienced a mild decline, with High Cis PBR prices averaging around USD 2,200/MT Ex-Pune Depot, reflecting a 1% drop from the previous quarter. The decrease was mainly attributed to reduced demand from the automotive and industrial rubber sectors, where slower production and cautious procurement weighed on overall consumption. Market sentiment remained tepid as buyers focused on drawing down existing inventories rather than placing new orders. Additionally, competitive pricing from alternative elastomers and seasonal factors contributed to the softening of prices. With supply levels remaining adequate and downstream activity lacking momentum, the Indian PBR market showed a subdued trend in Q1 2025, signalling a cautious start to the year. 

In Q4 2024, the Indian Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market registered an upward trend, with High Cis PBR prices reaching approximately USD 2,225/MT Ex-Pune Depot, reflecting a 3.6% increase from the previous quarter. The price rise was supported by a pickup in demand from the automotive and tyre manufacturing sectors, driven by year-end production cycles and a boost in replacement tire consumption. Improved downstream activity, coupled with limited stock availability in certain regions, added to the pricing momentum. Market participants reported more active procurement as buyers anticipated further firming of prices. Strengthening cost support from associated raw materials also contributed to the upward movement. Overall, Q4 2024 marked a firm phase for the Indian PBR market, with healthy demand fundamentals and positive buyer sentiment sustaining the incline. 

In Q3 2024, the Indian Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market showed a moderate upward trend, with High Cis PBR prices averaging around USD 2,150/MT Ex-Pune Depot, recording a 1.8% increase from the previous quarter. The rise in prices was influenced by steady demand from OEMs and aftermarket tyre producers, as production activity remained consistent during the quarter. Slightly firmer sentiments in the synthetic rubber space, along with gradual restocking by downstream players, added to the price support. Although buying was measured, a stable consumption pattern across industrial applications helped sustain the incline. Limited fluctuations in supply and consistent offtake created a balanced market environment, allowing prices to edge higher. This period reflected a cautiously optimistic outlook for the Indian PBR market, driven by a blend of consistent demand and firm market sentiment. 

In Q2 2024, the Indian Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market experienced a notable upward trend, with High Cis PBR prices reaching around USD 2,110/MT Ex-Pune Depot, reflecting a sharp 10.8% increase from the previous quarter. This surge was fuelled by heightened demand from tyre manufacturers and rubber goods producers, who ramped up production to meet seasonal and export-driven requirements. Additionally, tighter availability in the domestic market added pressure on supply chains, prompting price gains. Stronger cost support from upstream materials further influenced the pricing environment. Market players also noted more aggressive spot buying, as buyers looked to secure material in anticipation of further firming. 

In Q1 2024, the Indian Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) market recorded a moderate upward trend, with High Cis PBR prices averaging USD 1,900/MT Ex-Pune Depot, reflecting a 3% increase from the previous quarter. The incline was supported by a gradual recovery in demand from the automotive components and industrial rubber goods sectors, which had shown a cautious start to the year. Market participants reported increased inquiries as production schedules normalized after the year-end slowdown. Stable availability of material, along with a firm tone in the broader synthetic rubber market, contributed to the positive pricing direction. Q1 set a steady foundation for the Indian PBR market, marked by firming demand and supportive market cues. 

polybutadiene rubber Parameters Covered: 

  • Butadiene 
  • South Korea
  • Saudi Arabia
  • USA
  • France
  • Germany
  • Tire
  • Hoses
  • Belts
  • Footwear
  • India
  • China

polybutadiene rubber Parameters Covered: 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global polybutadiene rubber price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the polybutadiene rubber market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence polybutadiene rubber prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely polybutadiene rubber market data.

Track PriceWatch's polybutadiene rubber price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Polybutadiene Rubber prices

  • Global Energy Crisis (2021-2023): The global energy crisis, driven by high natural gas and crude oil prices, affected the production of various chemicals, including Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR). PBR production relies on petrochemical feedstocks Butadiene, and the energy crisis made it more expensive to produce the necessary raw materials like Ethylene monomer. This led to increased production costs and reduced output in many regions.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022): The pandemic caused widespread disruptions to global supply chains. Manufacturing plants were shut down, labour shortages occurred, and transportation logistics were severely impacted. The Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) industry experienced production halts due to factory closures and reduced demand from key sectors like automotive and construction.
  • Winter Storm Uri (February 2021, U.S.): This severe winter storm affected large parts of the U.S., particularly Texas, which is a major hub for petrochemical production. The storm led to widespread power outages, causing petrochemical plants and refineries to shut down. This disrupted the production of key feedstocks for Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR), such as Butadiene, leading to shortages and price hikes in the Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR).

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Butadiene) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive), to predict shifts in Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

Approximately 200,000

CAS No

9003-17-2

HS Code

400220

Molecular Formula

(C₄H₆)ₙ
polybutadiene rubber

Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) is a synthetic rubber known for its high wear resistance and ability to reduce rolling resistance, making it essential for tire manufacturing. It is produced through the polymerization of Butadiene using solution or emulsion processes, resulting in different types of PBR with various performance characteristics.

Packaging Type

35 Kg Bag

Grades Covered

High Cis

Incoterms Used

FOB Houston, FOB Jeddah, FOB Le Havre, FOB Busan, FOB Hamburg, CIF Shanghai (South Korea), CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea), Ex-Pune Depot, Ex-West India, Ex-Delhi, Ex-North India, Ex-Chennai, Ex-South India.

Synonym

PBR, Butadiene Rubber (BR), Synthetic Butadiene Rubber

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

Property  Specification  
Mooney Viscosity ML 1+4@100⁰C  44-63 MU 
Cis Content  >96% 
Catalyst  Ziegler-Natta / Neodymium 
Antioxidant  Non-Staining 
Density  0.91g/cm3 

Applications

Polybutadiene Rubber (PBR) is widely used in applications like tire manufacturing, automotive components (belts, hoses, and gaskets), golf balls, footwear soles, and conveyor belts due to its excellent wear resistance and flexibility. It is also utilized in industrial rubber goods, electrical insulation, and adhesives for its durability, resilience, and low-temperature performance. 

Polybutadiene Rubber price provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for polybutadiene rubber. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The pricing of PBR is influenced by several factors, with the cost of raw materials, particularly butadiene, playing a key role. Butadiene is derived from crude oil, meaning fluctuations in crude oil prices directly impact PBR production costs. Other factors include global supply-demand dynamics, production capacity, transportation costs, and geopolitical events that can disrupt raw material supply. Additionally, demand from end-use sectors such as automotive and tire manufacturing significantly impacts PBR pricing trends.

Raw material price fluctuations, especially in butadiene, have a direct effect on PBR pricing. Since butadiene is a petrochemical product, changes in crude oil prices influence its availability and cost. When butadiene prices rise due to shortages or increased demand, PBR prices typically follow suit. Conversely, when butadiene prices drop, PBR production costs may decrease, potentially leading to lower prices for the rubber.

Recent price trends for PBR have been influenced by fluctuating raw material costs and supply chain disruptions. Procurement heads can optimize purchasing strategies by closely monitoring market forecasts, securing long-term contracts during periods of price stability, and diversifying suppliers to reduce the risk of price hikes caused by shortages. Staying informed about global demand trends and geopolitical events is also crucial to making cost-effective purchasing decisions and managing supply risks.

PriceWatch Login