- Global butyl rubber prices increased in Q2 2026 as supply disruptions, higher input costs and limited availability supported producer offers.
- Feedstock markets provided mixed support, with C4 stream volatility and energy cost pressure influencing pricing across regions.
- Downstream demand remained stable in tires and automotive applications, while construction-related consumption stayed weak.
Asia
Butyl Rubber prices in China increased to ~RMB 33.96/kg and ~RMB 34.66/kg, respectively, in the first two months of Q2’26, showing a ~2.1% increase during the said period. Prices were supported by tight supply conditions caused by overseas plant maintenance, disrupted Middle Eastern shipments and limited imported regular butyl rubber availability. Chinese butyl rubber plant utilisation stable, with producers maintaining firm offers due to restricted supply. Halobutyl rubber availability remained constrained as domestic producers focused on export orders. Upstream support was mixed as MTBE and isoprene movements varied, while supply disruptions had a stronger impact than direct feedstock cost changes. Tire demand provided some support; however, market strength weakened later as MTBE prices declined and buyers shifted toward immediate purchasing. Along with this, automotive demand remained mixed, with new-energy vehicle production increasing 17.8% in May, while total vehicle output declined 3.2%.
Europe
Butyl Rubber prices in Germany increased to ~EUR 4.35/kg in April and ~EUR 4.47/kg in the subsequent month, showing a ~2.9% increase. European markets were supported by higher energy and production costs, with polymer manufacturers facing increased utility, transportation and processing expenses. Energy producer costs remained elevated, while intermediate-goods prices increased from March to April, supporting supplier pricing. Disruptions in LNG availability increased uncertainty around energy costs and affected chemical producers. Automotive demand provided support for halobutyl rubber used in tire inner liners, with EU new-car registrations increasing 4% during January to May. However, weak construction activity limited non-tire demand, as euro-area building construction declined 5.2% year over year in April, affecting sealants, adhesives and waterproofing applications.
North America
Butyl Rubber prices in the United States increased to ~USD 5,061.00/MT in April and ~USD 5,242.19/MT in the following month, showing a ~3.6% increase. Prices were supported by upstream cost pressure from crude-related C4 feedstocks after Middle Eastern supply disruptions affected refinery streams and energy markets. However, weaker global oil demand limited further cost escalation later in the quarter. Automotive demand remained stable, with U.S. motor vehicle assemblies at 10.61 million units in April and 10.63 million units in May on a seasonally adjusted annual basis, supporting tire-related consumption.