Investigation into Indian rubber by China concludes amid escalating tensions between China and Canada
In the dynamic world of the global rubber market, halogenated butyl rubber has emerged as a strategic material, particularly in the automotive tire segment. This specialized synthetic polymer, primarily used for the inner liners of tubeless tires, has earned its place due to its exceptional properties that significantly improve tire life, air retention, and manufacturing efficiency.
The significance of halogenated butyl rubber (often brominated) is evident in its widespread use in tire inner liners. This material provides an effective air barrier that maintains tire pressure over time, thereby enhancing tire performance and safety. The halogenation process enhances butyl rubber by enabling faster curing and compatibility with other rubbers like natural rubber and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), which are extensively used in tire manufacturing.
Halogenated butyl rubber's importance in global trade is rooted in its indispensable use in automotive tires, a market that is expanding worldwide, driven by increased vehicle production and growing consumer demand, including the rise of electric vehicles. The improved properties of halogenated butyl rubber help tire manufacturers produce reliable, long-lasting tires that meet stringent performance and safety standards, thus driving sustained demand internationally.
Beyond tires, halogenated butyl rubber offers additional advantages, such as resistance to weathering, ozone, and chemicals, making it suitable for applications beyond tires, like tank linings and conveyor belts. Moreover, when combined with nanofillers like graphite or graphene, it improves air barrier properties in inner liners for pneumatic tires.
However, the trade of halogenated butyl rubber is not without controversy. In August 2025, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce concluded an 11-month anti-dumping investigation into imports of halogenated butyl rubber, following a request from Zhejiang Cenway New Materials. The investigation examined import data for 2023 and evaluated industrial injury over the 2021-2023 period.
China's decision to impose anti-dumping duties on halogenated butyl rubber imports could have far-reaching implications. For instance, Canadian producers may face duties up to 40.5%, while Arlanxeo Canada is subject to a 26.2% rate. These costs could cause reorganizations within supply chains and encourage some customers to turn to other suppliers.
From an industrial perspective, China's targeted anti-dumping actions have the potential to change sourcing strategies and the balance of international trade in specialized industrial materials. This situation could provide an opportunity for India to attract customers of Canadian and Japanese suppliers who are currently under sanctions.
However, it's important to note that the absence of Chinese tariffs on halogenated butyl rubber imports could strengthen India's presence in the Chinese market. The situation highlights that China's anti-dumping actions can have an impact beyond the trade of a single product.
In conclusion, halogenated butyl rubber continues to play a critical role in the global tire industry and beyond, due to its excellent low gas permeability, durability, and improved curing characteristics. The ongoing trade disputes surrounding this material underscore the complexities of global trade and the strategic importance of materials in various industries.
Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the properties of halogenated butyl rubber, as it is used in the halogenation process that enables faster curing and compatibility with other rubbers, such as natural rubber and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), extensively used in tire manufacturing.
The sports industry also benefits from the use of halogenated butyl rubber, as it is a key component in the inner liners of tires used in electric vehicles, which are gaining popularity worldwide and contribute to improved vehicle performance and efficiency.
