Parliament Question: Impact of increased rubber imports on domestic producers

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 2445 ANSWERED ON 13/03/2026 IMPACT OF INCREASED RUBBER IMPORTS ON DOMESTIC PRODUCERS 2445. SHRI JOSE K. MANI Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has assessed the impact of increased rubber imports on domestic producers; (b) if so, the details of import trends and their effect on local prices; and (c) the support measures being taken to protect the livelihood of rubber farmers in the country from the declining rubber prices? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI JITIN PRASADA) (a) to (c) The import of Natural Rubber in FY 2024-25 was 550,918 tonnes as against 546,369 tonnes during the FY 2021-22, with no significant increase overall in this period. The import of Natural Rubber during April to January, 2025-26 was 399,535 tonnes as against 485,666 tonnes during the same period of 2024-25 showing a decline of 17.73%. The prices of natural rubber are determined in the open market based on demand and supply. International prices also influence domestic prices. The average price of natural rubber (RSS 4 grade) in Kottayam, Kerala during the period April to January, 2025-26 has been Rs.193.77 per kg compared to an average price of Rs 170.77 per kg for the period of FY 2021-22 to FY 2024-25. Government of India through Rubber Board is implementing the scheme “Sustainable and Inclusive Development of Natural Rubber Sector” for the benefit of natural rubber sector in the country. Under the scheme, Rubber Board provides financial / technical assistance for inter alia planting / replanting of natural rubber, rain guarding, promotion of good agricultural practices, prevention of diseases in order to increase the productivity and production of natural rubber. Under the Scheme capacity building programmes viz., training, demonstrations and skill development programmes are also conducted by the Board. ***** 1