The global market for solution styrene-butadiene rubber (S-SBR) is projected to reach US$6 billion by 2030, up from an estimated US$4.2 billion in 2024, according to a market report. The forecast implies a compound annual growth rate of 6.1% over the period.
S-SBR is a synthetic rubber valued for abrasion resistance, tensile strength and flexibility. In high-performance tires, the material is linked to improved fuel efficiency, wet grip and lower rolling resistance compared with traditional rubber materials, the report states.
Tire demand anchors growth
The automotive industry is expected to remain the main source of demand. The report projects the tire application segment to reach US$4.7 billion by 2030, growing at a 6.5% CAGR and remaining both the largest and fastest-growing application covered.
Demand is being supported by tires designed for safety, durability and fuel efficiency, as manufacturers adopt advanced rubber materials. The report also points to high-performance and environmentally conscious tires as a factor in market expansion, because reduced rolling resistance can contribute to better vehicle fuel economy and lower emissions.
China leads regional expansion
Regional differences are expected to shape the market through 2030. The United States market was valued at US$799.4 million in 2024. China is forecast to grow at a 7.9% CAGR and reach US$1.2 billion by 2030. The report also examines Japan, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, India, South Korea and other countries and regions, identifying Asia-Pacific as an important growth region while North America and Europe remain significant opportunities.
Technology, EVs and other applications
Advances in polymerization and processing are expected to improve S-SBR performance and versatility. The report cites polymerization techniques that allow rubber grades to be tailored to specific applications, as well as nanotechnology and advanced fillers that support mechanical performance and durability. Improvements in solution polymerization and advanced mixing processes are also described as enhancing production efficiency and product quality.
Electric vehicles represent another potential opportunity. The report identifies expanding EV production and sales as a factor that could increase the use of S-SBR in electric vehicle tires. Beyond tires, footwear is projected to grow at a 5.7% CAGR, supported by demand for durable and flexible materials. S-SBR is also used in adhesives and sealants, polymer modification and other industrial applications. The report highlights opportunities linked to adhesives and sealants, as well as recovery in the global construction sector, where infrastructure investment, construction activity and urbanization could support demand for construction-related materials.
Risks and competitive landscape
Despite the positive outlook, the market faces challenges from international trade developments, supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainty. The report incorporates updated analysis of tariff developments across more than 180 countries, including potential effects on sourcing, supply chains and geographic market positioning. It also includes revised forecasts through 2030, historical market performance from 2015 to 2023 and competitive market share estimates for 2025.
Companies identified in the report include ARLANXEO Holding B.V., Asahi Kasei Corporation, Chi Mei Corporation, Dynasol Group, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, JSR Corporation, LANXESS AG, LG Chem Ltd., SIBUR International GmbH, China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec), Sumitomo Chemical Asia Pte Ltd., Synthos SA, Taiwan Synthetic Rubber Corporation, Trinseo and Versalis S.p.A. Vertical integration and a strategic focus on tire applications are among the competitive strategies identified.