InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA — Entering early 2026, global rubber prices are expected to remain in a consolidation phase, with a tendency toward stability and gradual strengthening. The price gains recorded at the end of December 2025 are seen as providing positive psychological support for the market, although industry players are still urged to remain cautious amid ongoing global uncertainties.
Supartijo, Chairman of the South Sumatra Regional Board of APKARINDO, said the rubber market at the start of the year has yet to show signs of a sharp surge, but has sufficient fundamentals to maintain price stability.
“The market is still moving cautiously after the year-end closure. However, the price strengthening at the end of 2025 provides relatively positive initial sentiment,” Supartijo said in a statement quoted by InfoSAWIT, Saturday (3/1/2026).
Supporting Factors at the Start of the Year
According to Supartijo, several factors could help keep rubber prices stable in early 2026. These include the gradual recovery of industrial demand after the year-end holidays, supply adjustments from major producing countries, and relatively controlled currency movements.
In addition, strong closing prices at the end of 2025 have provided psychological support for the market. “These factors may not be sufficient to drive a sharp rally, but at least they can prevent prices from coming under significant pressure,” he explained.
Global Dynamics Still Looming
Nevertheless, Supartijo cautioned that positive sentiment must be balanced with vigilance. The global rubber market will continue to be influenced by fluctuations in international exchange rates, economic policy directions of major economies, and demand developments from the automotive and manufacturing sectors.
“Price fluctuations will still occur, especially in the early part of the first quarter. This is part of the market adjustment process,” he said.
A Healthier Market Direction
Overall, Supartijo believes that rubber price movements in early 2026 are healthier compared with the beginning of 2025. Prices are expected to remain stable and gradually strengthen, although short-term corrections may still occur.
“A sharp surge is not the main scenario. But compared with early last year, current market conditions are relatively more controlled,” he said.
He emphasised that this projection is based on price patterns at the end of 2025 and global market dynamics, and should not be viewed as an invitation to speculate. “Most importantly, farmers and industry players must continue to monitor market developments and avoid being carried away by euphoria,” Supartijo concluded. (T2)
