Deputy plantation and commodities minister Chan Foong Hin said Malaysia exported rubber gloves worth over RM11.8 billion in 2023, capturing 45% of the global market share.

He said that for the first half of 2024 (H1 2024), the rubber glove industry trade surged to RM6.8 billion, up from RM5.8 billion in the same period in 2023.

“So, that is why we anticipate the figure (of rubber gloves export value) will increase from RM11.8 billion to RM12.4 billion for this year.

“It is quite an encouraging trend for the Malaysian rubber export,” he told reporters after officiating the 11th International Rubber Glove Conference & Exhibition (IRGCE 2024).

Earlier in his speech, Chan said the government supports the industry’s continued growth.

“We recognise the extensive economic benefits it generates, from upstream cultivation to downstream manufacturing, positively affecting the entire economic ecosystem.

“Nevertheless, we must also address existing challenges, such as the volatility of our rubber prices together with emerging issues like untapped areas and plant diseases deeply affecting the production and yield of raw rubber,” he said.

Chan said the ministry is committed to addressing this issue by leveraging technological advancements and research to enhance productivity, quality, and global competitiveness.

“We are confident that our new commercially driven model will significantly increase the country’s rubber yield, optimise plantation and labour management, and ultimately improve the income of rubber smallholders,” he said.

Looking ahead, Chan stated that it is crucial for the Malaysian rubber glove industry to embrace sustainability.

“We have already seen numerous sustainable practices within the industry, including the development of eco-friendly gloves, water conservation initiatives, and investments in renewable energy,” he added.