Chinese producers lead global synthetic rubber output in 2026

Global synthetic rubber (SR) production rankings for 2026 have been topped by Chinese giants, with Sinopec retaining its position as the world’s largest SR manufacturer. According to the International Institute of Synthetic Rubber Producers (IISRP), Sinopec maintained its ‘active’ SR capacity at 1,920 kilotonnes per annum (ktpa), unchanged from the previous year. PetroChina, meanwhile, saw a 3% year-on-year increase in its ‘active’ SR capacity, rising to 1,710ktpa and securing the second spot in the annual ranking. The Saudi Aramco-owned Arlanxeo, formerly the dominant global player, dropped one place to third after its ‘active’ SR capacity fell by 20% year-on-year to 1,518ktpa. Despite ongoing EU sanctions on Russian imports, Sibur/NKNH held steady in fourth place, with its ‘active’ SR capacity remaining unchanged at 1,297ktpa. The rankings, compiled by the IISRP and reported by the European Rubber Journal, highlight China’s growing dominance in the synthetic rubber sector, with the top four producers now all based in Asia. The data underscores the shifting dynamics of the global rubber market, where Chinese producers continue to expand their influence amid fluctuating demand and geopolitical pressures.