Kuala Lumpur:The Kuala Lumpur rubber market concluded with mixed results, influenced by regional rubber futures and a decline in benchmark crude oil prices.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Japanese rubber futures saw an increase due to stronger Thai prices and limited supply, although gains were restrained by weak Chinese auto sales. The market sentiment was further affected by ongoing tensions between China and the European Union (EU), as well as geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia.

China's vehicle sales dropped by 8.4% year-on-year in September, indicating persistent weakness in domestic demand despite a slight monthly recovery. In response, the EU is considering implementing trade defence measures against China in December to address its trade deficit and reduce dependency on Chinese supplies.

The dealer noted that potential losses were mitigated by adverse weather conditions in major rubber-producing regions and concerns over supply due to the possibility of a prolonged El Niño, extending into early 2027. Additionally, Chinese rubber inventories are reportedly declining.

At 3 pm, the price of Standard Malaysian Rubber 20 (SMR 20) fell by 11.5 sen to 1,063.5 sen per kilogram, while bulk latex saw an increase of four sen, reaching 781 sen per kg.