MALAYSIA is maintaining itself as a global leader in the rubber glove sector with 420,000 hectares of untapped rubber fields ready to be processed.
In the first half of 2024 alone, the industry recorded a surge in trade, reaching RM6.8 billion.
Plantation and Commodities Deputy Minister Chan Foong Hin highlighted Malaysia’s global leadership in rubber glove manufacturing, which captured 45% of the global market share last year, significantly contributing to the nation’s GDP.
Despite facing challenges such as labour costs and plant diseases, the industry is projected to continue growing, with a target of RM12.4 billion for 2024.
Chan said the government is actively supporting this growth through technological advancements and research, encouraging eco-friendly practices and investments in renewable energy.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association (Margma) president Oon Kim Hung said Malaysia accounted for over 60% of the country’s rubber product exports.
During his opening address at the International Rubber Glove Conference and Exhibition 2024 (IRGCE 2024), Oon stressed the industry’s commitment to progress.
“We are excited to bring together industry experts and stakeholders to shape the discussion for the future of the rubber glove industry,” he said.
Themed “Towards an Effective, Sustainable and Innovative Rubber Glove Industry,” the conference aims to address pressing challenges such as climate change and digital transformation, with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
The three-day event expects to draw over 12,000 participants, including global visitors and industry experts.
A panel of local and international experts will present 31 technical papers, exploring emerging trends and groundbreaking innovations that are shaping the global rubber glove market.
