Malaysian exports of rubber products had a strong six months, at RM8.46bn. That’s a big leap considering that the export value was RM10.7bn for the whole of 2014.
If trade keeps going at the same pace, experts say that the export value will surpass the original RM15.17bn target to end the year at the RM16bn.
Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said that medical gloves are a major contributor to the growth.
“The demand for medical gloves is also expected to increase further in line with the growing awareness on the importance of gloves in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and the rise in health expenditure worldwide,” Uggah said.
Investment in new plants is also on the rise and is expected to reach RM7bn in 2020.
“The investments will focus on enhancement of technology and innovation which are critical in upgrading productivity and efficiency of the industry,” he said.