Rubber production to be lower this year

Intensive rain, widespread incidence of abnormal leaf fall reasons for decline

Natural rubber (NR) production in the country during the current fiscal (2013-2014) is likely to be lower than what was projected earlier, said Sheela Thomas, Chairman, Rubber Board.

Intensive rain and the widespread incidence of abnormal leaf fall are the reasons for decline in production. However, the increase in tapped area from 5,04,000 ha in 2012-2013 to 5,18,000 ha in 2013-14 and the higher level of moisture content in the soil may increase the production in the coming months.

The projected closing stock of NR in 2013 -14 is 2,70,000 tonnes.

Domestic production of NR during April - August 2013 is 2,65,000 tonnes. Consumption during this period was 4,08,805 tonnes. Consumption of NR for the year 2013-14 is projected at 9,45,000 tonnes. Import and export of NR during April to August 2013 were 1,28,465 and 2,319 tonnes respectively.

Talking at the annual meeting of Rubber Board today she said as per the report from International Rubber Study Group (IRSG), the world production of NR during April to August declined by 0.9% owing mainly to adverse weather conditions.

The growth in NR consumption during the period was minimal at 1.1%. World economy is beset with challenges of economic recession and geopolitical concerns. The present situation indicates that the NR market is likely to remain volatile, she added.