27/03/2025
China's Rubber & Plastic Products Export: Resilience and Future Driven by Green & Smart Trends
1. Current Export Overview
In 2025, China's rubber and plastic products export market demonstrates strong resilience despite challenges such as seasonal disruptions (e.g., Lunar New Year) and trade tensions. Although year-on-year export growth slowed to 2.3% (USD terms) in January-February, high-value-added products like electromechanical goods (integrated circuits, computers) maintained rapid growth, supporting overall stability.
2. Key Data & Trends
1. Structural Optimization
- High-Value Dominance: Electromechanical products (4.2% YoY growth) contributed nearly 48% to export growth, driven by global semiconductor demand.
- Traditional Sector Pressure: Textiles, footwear, and raw materials faced declines, reflecting a shift from low-end to high-end production.
2. Regional Market Dynamics
- Major Partners Lead: Exports to ASEAN, the U.S., EU, and India remained positive, jointly contributing over 80% of growth. ASEAN alone contributed 0.89 percentage points.
- Emerging Markets Expansion: Demand for tires and plastic pipes surged in Southeast Asia and Africa, with rubber tire exports rising 5.2% in volume (2024).
3. Green & Smart Transition
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Biodegradable plastics and high-performance engineering plastics grew rapidly, fueled by policies like China’s "Dual Carbon" goals and EU REACH regulations.
- Smart Manufacturing: Leading companies (e.g., Sailun Group) reduced energy consumption by 20% through automation, enhancing export competitiveness.
3. Challenges & Risks
1. Trade Barriers: The U.S. imposed an additional 10% tariff in March 2025, potentially dampening short-term exports, though preemptive shipments may mitigate impacts.
2. Cost & Regulatory Pressures: Fluctuating raw material costs (e.g., natural rubber imports fell 8.2%) and stricter environmental standards pressure SMEs to transform.
4. Future Outlook
- Market Projections: China’s rubber products market is expected to exceed ¥579.7 billion by 2025, with a 6% CAGR (2025–2030), driven by green and high-end products.
- Strategic Recommendations: Companies should prioritize R&D (e.g., nanocomposites), explore Belt & Road markets, and monitor policy shifts to navigate risks.
Conclusion
China’s rubber and plastic exports show resilience amid challenges. Embracing innovation and green transition will be key to capturing opportunities in the global supply chain. Companies must enhance high-end manufacturing capabilities and international collaboration to navigate trade uncertainties.
