For the Quarter Ending June 2025
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
• Halo Butyl Rubber Price Index in APAC declined by 0.6% quarter-on-quarter, settling at USD 2,890/MT FOB Tokyo by the end of June 2025. The price saw a mild decrease of 0.7% in April, followed by further declines of 1.5% in May and 2.7% in June, driven by weakening crude oil prices, modest demand from downstream sectors, and logistical headwinds. Despite steady production backed by ample Isobutylene feedstock, the subdued automotive sector and intermittent construction demand weighed on overall procurement momentum.
• Why did the price of Halo Butyl Rubber change in July 2025 in APAC? In early July 2025, prices held steady amid stable demand from automotive producers and easing upstream costs. The ceasefire between Israel and Iran softened crude oil values, lowering production costs. Despite port congestion and inland logistics challenges, strong NEV output in China and Southeast Asia provided a cushion to overall pricing.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Price Forecast for early Q3 2025 suggests a rangebound to mildly bullish trajectory, as automotive-grade rubber demand remains resilient and supply-chain issues persist. Freight volatility, container shortages, and cautious restocking will be key factors shaping pricing trends.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Production Cost Trend remained pressured through Q2, reflecting oscillations in crude oil linked to geopolitical events and OPEC+ output fluctuations. While the ceasefire eased cost burdens temporarily, port rerouting and inland freight delays elevated logistical expenses, squeezing margins.
• Halo Butyl Rubber Demand Outlook remained stable across core segments. NEV and hybrid vehicle manufacturing sustained steady demand in key economies, while infrastructure activity in China, India, and Southeast Asia drove niche consumption. However, high vehicle prices and tight project financing restricted aggressive procurement.
• Asia’s export performance in Q2 2025 was mixed. While shipments to North America and Southeast Asia improved in June due to front-loading, the region contended with port congestion, labor disruptions, and rerouting pressures from Red Sea and Hormuz tensions. This strained delivery timelines and logistics costs.
• Domestic consumption in markets like China and India remained firm, particularly for automotive components like tire inner liners and gaskets. Construction sector offtake was modest but consistent, backed by infrastructure demand and waterproofing material applications, even as Japan and South Korea faced demographic and labor constraints.
North America
• Halo Butyl Rubber (BIIR) Price Index in North America declined by 1.3% quarter-on-quarter, April and May saw downward momentum as demand weakened in the automotive sector, compounded by tariff-led trade disruptions, and rising logistical costs. June showed price stabilization, as consistent supply and improved automotive and construction activity helped balance market fundamentals.
• In early July 2025, the Price Index for BIIR remained steady at USD 2418/MT FOB Texas. The stability was underpinned by balanced demand from the tire and construction sectors, even as feedstock Isobutylene costs fell in response to a drop in upstream crude oil prices following easing geopolitical tensions. The ceasefire between Israel and Iran notably removed risk premiums from oil markets, softening input costs.
• According to the Halo Butyl Rubber Price Forecast, prices are likely to remain stable through mid-Q3 2025. However, upward pressure may emerge if supply tightens due to further logistical bottlenecks, seasonal disruptions, or renewed tariff escalations impacting raw material or finished goods flow.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Production Cost Trend showed a slight downward shift over the quarter, supported by declining crude oil prices and steady Isobutylene availability. However, persistent freight volatility, port congestion, and trade policy uncertainty added complexity to production planning and inventory management, especially with hurricane season stockpiling and Red Sea-related shipping challenges in play.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Demand Outlook was sectorally mixed but stable overall during Q2 2025. While automotive manufacturing dipped in early Q2, it rebounded by June amid rising EV and light truck production. The construction sector remained resilient, driven by infrastructure investments and durable material demand for roofing, sealants, and insulation, offsetting slower residential completions.
• Imports and Exports of Halo Butyl Rubber fluctuated modestly over the quarter. The reintroduction of Trump-era tariffs and removal of de minimis exemptions strained trade with Canada, Mexico, and Asia, disrupting traditional supply routes. Meanwhile, domestic digital logistics tools and warehousing strategies supported continuity in supply despite global trade volatility.
• Global Trade Outlook: Asian and European producers operated at stable capacities, but their exports to North America were constrained by policy-driven trade shifts and rising shipping costs. Although bulk trade in chemical commodities continued, the Liberation Day tariff regime led to shifts in supplier preference, with buyers reevaluating cost structures and sourcing strategies.
Europe
• Halo Butyl Rubber (CIIR) prices in Europe recorded a quarterly decline of approximately 2.1% in Q2 2025, amid persistent logistical disruptions and shifting demand patterns. CFR Hamburg quotations began the quarter around USD 2953/MT in early April, climbed marginally to USD 2977/MT in late April (+0.8%), but fell by mid-May and further dropped to USD 2710/MT by late June (1.8% in May, 6.5% in June). This downward trajectory was shaped by easing feedstock Isobutylene costs, disrupted port activity, and weak demand from the construction sector. Although automotive end-use demand remained resilient—especially from EV manufacturing—the overall market sentiment stayed subdued due to inflationary pressure and logistical bottlenecks across Northern Europe.
• In early July 2025, Halo Butyl Rubber prices in Europe remained unchanged, reflecting stable demand-supply fundamentals. Demand held steady from the automotive sector, especially for tire inner liners and sealing systems used in electric and hybrid vehicles. Meanwhile, feedstock Isobutylene prices softened as upstream Brent Crude Oil prices declined following a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. The easing of geopolitical tensions reduced the risk premium in energy markets, contributing to lower input costs. However, logistics continued to face strain from labor shortages, port strikes, and inland freight disruptions, impeding supply chains.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Price Forecast for early Q3 2025 indicates a cautiously stable-to-soft trend, contingent upon sustained automotive sector demand and the resolution of inland and maritime shipping issues. Weakness in construction, especially in the residential segment across Germany and France, may limit any significant price recovery, although stable procurement from infrastructure projects and aftermarket segments could provide a partial offset.
• Halo Butyl Rubber Production Cost Trends remained mixed across Q2. Lower upstream crude oil prices, driven by increased OPEC+ output and reduced geopolitical tensions, provided cost relief. Nevertheless, these gains were partly offset by higher logistics and compliance-related expenses. Toll adjustments in Denmark and CO2-based freight surcharges in the Netherlands inflated inland shipping costs, while port congestion in Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Bremerhaven extended delivery timelines and constrained freight capacity.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Demand Outlook showed relative stability, supported by durable consumption in the automotive industry despite overall vehicle sales dropping 6% year-on-year in June. EV and hybrid vehicle production drove steady procurement of rubber components, including inner liners and seals. On the other hand, the construction sector remained sluggish, with high interest rates and declining residential building activity curbing demand for CIIR in roofing and sealing applications. Public infrastructure maintenance and retrofitting projects offered some support but were insufficient to drive significant volume growth.
• European imports and exports of CIIR continued to face bottlenecks due to trade and transport disruptions. Labor strikes, workforce shortages, and low water levels on the Rhine River hindered both seaborne and inland freight, leading to delayed shipments and inventory buildups. Rail logistics also encountered setbacks from infrastructure upgrades, contributing to higher delivery costs and less reliable supply timelines across Europe.
• Regional demand dynamics remained fragmented. While Germany and France experienced soft consumption due to declining construction activity and weak consumer sentiment, markets in Belgium, Eastern Europe, and Italy demonstrated firmer offtakes. Demand for CIIR in insulation materials, tire production, and aftermarket vehicle parts helped stabilize consumption in these regions, offering mild support against broader macroeconomic pressures.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Spot Price in North America showed a marginal increase early in Q1 2025, followed by a declining trend by March, as reflected in the Price Index.
• In January, the Price Index was pressured by moderate material availability and weak global export rates, especially to Europe and Australia.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Production Cost Trend rose due to steady feedstock Isobutylene supply and higher energy costs linked to crude oil prices.
• February saw increased upstream cost support and tighter feedstock availability, which briefly pushed the Price Index higher.
• New tariffs on imports contributed to production cost escalation, adding further upward pressure on pricing.
• In March, despite cost-side pressures, the Halo Butyl Rubber Demand Outlook remained moderate, with slight recovery in the automotive sector, supported by increased EV registrations.
Why did the price of Halo Butyl Rubber change in April 2025 in the US?
• In April 2025, the Halo Butyl Rubber Price Index stable due to easing supply constraints and limited growth in downstream demand despite prior cost escalations. The price of Halo Butyl Rubber settled at USD 2578/MT on a FOB Texas.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Price Forecast for the upcoming quarter anticipates stable-to-soft pricing as demand remains moderate and inventories balance out.
APAC
• In Q1 2025, the Halo Butyl Rubber Spot Price in the APAC region saw a mild increase initially, then trended downward by March, marking volatility in the Price Index.
• January’s decline in the Price Index was driven by weak demand from the tire and rubber components sector, primarily due to challenges in the automotive industry.
• Feedstock costs stayed firm due to high crude oil prices, but limited demand caused downward pressure on prices.
• February recorded a temporary recovery in the Price Index due to increased freight charges for Isobutylene and tighter feedstock availability.
• Thailand’s imports of Halo Butyl Rubber decreased in March due to tariff concerns, which further reduced supply.
• Despite declining automotive production and exports, the construction sector's strong public investment boosted Halo Butyl Rubber Demand Outlook for adhesives and sealants.
Why did the price of Halo Butyl Rubber change in April 2025 in the APAC?
• In April 2025, the Halo Butyl Rubber Price Index remained stable to slight increase trend due to the moderate orders from the downstream automotive and construction sectors. The price of Halo Butyl Rubber settled at USD 2938/MT on a CFR Shanghai.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Price Forecast indicates mild softness unless demand rebounds in the tire and automotive industries.
Europe
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Spot Price in Europe experienced an early surge in Q1 2025, followed by a decline, which was reflected in a fluctuating Price Index.
• January saw a price dip due to increased inventory levels and reduced offtakes from construction and automotive sectors after year-end stocking.
• February marked a rebound in the Price Index, driven by rising input costs and increased freight rates for Isobutylene.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Production Cost Trend rose as freight surcharges inflated upstream costs, impacting import prices in Germany.
• Improved automotive sales in Western Europe (PV selling rate rising from 11.6 to 12.6 million units/year) offered slight support to the Halo Butyl Rubber Demand Outlook.
• Severe weather and port strikes in Rotterdam and Le Havre disrupted logistics in March, further complicating supply and raising costs.
Why did the price of Halo Butyl Rubber change in April 2025 in the Europe?
• In April 2025, the Halo Butyl Rubber Price Index stable due to normalization in port operations and subdued growth in demand despite earlier cost escalations. The price of Halo Butyl Rubber settled at USD 3343/MT on an FD Hamburg.
• The Halo Butyl Rubber Price Forecast for Q2 points to stabilization, provided logistical issues remain under control and automotive demand picks up.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Halo Butyl Rubber (HBR) market experienced a slight 1% increase compared to the previous quarter. Production rates remained stable, supported by moderate availability of feedstock Isobutylene, while fluctuations in crude oil prices impacted production costs. Demand from the automotive sector remained robust, with increased vehicle sales driving higher demand for HBR in tire, tube, and automotive parts. The construction sector saw more mixed trends, with demand for HBR in adhesives and sealants showing modest growth, especially in highway and educational projects.
However, export demand weakened, particularly from Europe and Australia, due to softening global markets and supply chain disruptions. Despite these challenges, steady consumption of HBR in automotive and industrial applications helped stabilize the market.
Towards the end of the quarter, energy costs increased, placing upward pressure on production costs, but the impact was somewhat offset by moderate feedstock availability. In general, while global demand faced some slowdowns, the resilience in key sectors like automotive and adhesives led to a 1% overall increase in HBR activity, reflecting a balanced market with mixed demand dynamics.
APAC
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Halo Butyl Rubber (HBR) market experienced a slight increase in demand, driven primarily by strong performance in the construction sector. Production levels remained steady, supported by moderate availability of feedstock Isobutylene, despite disruptions caused by Typhoon Kong-Rey. The construction sector in Japan saw a significant rise in orders, contributing to higher consumption of HBR in various applications. However, the automotive sector faced a decline in demand, with lower vehicle sales and reduced orders for HBR in automotive parts and tires. Exports from Japan showed growth, especially in chipmaking equipment, and there was moderate demand for HBR in other industries, such as paints and coatings, driven by regional expansion in Asia. The overall market remained stable, although demand in the automotive sector continued to weaken. Throughout the quarter, the market was characterized by steady production and moderate feedstock availability, while strong performance in the construction sector offset some of the softness in automotive applications. Overall, the market saw a modest uptick in activity, with demand for HBR supported by growing construction and coatings sectors.
Europe
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Halo Butyl Rubber (HBR) market experienced a modest overall increase in activity, with a 4% rise from the previous quarter. Despite ongoing challenges in the European market, including continued manufacturing contractions and subdued demand in the construction sector, several factors supported this growth. Production rates remained steady, aided by moderate availability of feedstock Isobutylene and a slight decline in Isobutylene prices, which helped stabilize production costs. The automotive sector saw stable demand, although sales of domestic vehicles showed a decline, reflecting broader economic pressures. Export activity faced constraints due to reduced shipping capacity, tight space availability in Northern Europe, and logistical delays. However, regional inventories remained relatively high, with manufacturers adjusting their supply chains accordingly. The construction sector continued to experience a downturn, but demand for HBR in adhesives and sealants remained moderate despite the economic challenges. Throughout the quarter, cost pressures eased slightly with falling input prices, while the rise in energy costs and supply chain disruptions impacted the overall market dynamics. Despite the mixed demand across sectors, the European market saw some stability in production and moderate demand from automotive and industrial sectors, contributing to the 4% increase in HBR market activity compared to the previous quarter.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the Halo Butyl Rubber price trend showcased bullish movement in the North American region. Prices witnessed a notable increase, driven by factors influencing the market dynamics. Factors such as steady demand from various sectors, including automotive and construction, limited supplies, and fluctuating cost support from feedstock Isobutylene contributed to the overall bullish market sentiment, highlighting a stable and robust pricing landscape for Halo Butyl Rubber in the region.
In the middle of the third quarter, Halo Butyl Rubber production rates were hampered because of the stressed availability of feedstocks in the region. The offtakes were moderate, and market players raised their quotations. The correlation in price changes demonstrated a positive sentiment, with a 1% change between the first and second half of the quarter.
Towards the end of Q3, the impact of Hurricane Helene resulted in reduced manufacturing activities in the region and a reduction in domestic stockpiles amid affected supply chain activities. The correlation between price changes remained consistent with a 1% increase from the previous quarter, indicating stability in the pricing environment. The quarter concluded with Halo Butyl Rubber BIIR DEL Texas prices reaching USD 2400/MT, reflecting an overall positive pricing trend in the region.
APAC
In Q3 2024, Halo Butyl Rubber's price trend showcased bullish movement, and prices in the APAC region experienced a notable increase. Various factors contributed to this upward trend, including consistent demand from the automotive sector and moderate from regional construction sectors. At the same time, the looming concerns about a recession in the US affected the international crude oil market and refinery operation during the mid-quarter. It stressed the feedstock Isobutylene supplies and Halo Butyl Rubber production rates in the region. Additionally, the market's dynamics were further complicated by supply chain disruptions impacted by seasonal factors like monsoons and typhoons and geopolitical tensions affecting crude oil imports, leading to variable feedstock availability. The price comparison between the first and second half of the quarter showed a 2% increase in prices. Conclusively, the quarter concluded with Halo Butyl Rubber CIIR FOB Tokyo quotations settled at USD 3050/MT in Japan, after an overall 3% increase from the last quarter's prices, further supporting the overall uptrend.
Europe
Like the North American region, the Halo Butyl Rubber pricing in the European market has followed an upward trajectory throughout the third quarter of 2024. The market has been influenced by stable demand from downstream industries, particularly the automotive and construction sector, despite weak production rates, with a consistent decline in the Eurozone Manufacturing PMI Index. Supply-side dynamics also played a role, as supply availability was moderately low during the summer holidays, creating imbalanced demand-supply dynamics. Yet, demand failed to match this increase, as The Eurozone's construction sector continued its downturn, significantly impacting Halo Butyl Rubber consumption. Seasonality played a role as summer holidays resulted in labor shortages and reduced manufacturing rates, impacting supply chains. Additionally, concerns about a potential recession in the US affecting the international crude oil market and refinery operations have led to a shortage of feedstock supplies, impacting Halo Butyl Rubber production rates. Conclusively, the quarter concluded with Halo Butyl Rubber CIIR FD Le Havre in France, which stood at USD 3150/MT, after an overall 3% increase from the last quarter's prices, indicating a consistent upward trend throughout the quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is the current price of Halo Butyl Rubber in Asia-Pacific (APAC)?
By the end of Q2 2025, Halo Butyl Rubber prices in Asia stood at approximately USD 2,890/MT FOB Tokyo.
2. What is the current price of Halo Butyl Rubber in North America?
By the end of Q2 2025, Halo Butyl Rubber prices in the USA stood at approximately USD 2,418/MT FOB Texas.
3. What is the current price of Halo Butyl Rubber in Europe?
By the end of Q2 2025, Halo Butyl Rubber prices in Europe stood at approximately USD 2,710/MT CFR Hamburg.
4. Why did Halo Butyl Rubber prices change in July 2025?
o Asia-Pacific (APAC): Prices held steady in early Q3 2025 as stable automotive demand, particularly from NEV production in China and Southeast Asia, offset easing upstream crude oil costs. Port congestion and inland logistical delays continued to challenge supply dynamics.
o North America: Prices remained unchanged as steady procurement from tire and construction sectors was supported by declining Isobutylene and crude oil costs following geopolitical de-escalation. However, persistent freight and tariff-related challenges moderated trade flows.
o Europe: Prices steadied after a Q2 drop, supported by stable demand from EV manufacturing and aftermarket tire components. Easing feedstock costs helped balance weak construction demand, though logistics disruptions—especially port strikes and low Rhine River levels—continued to impact overall supply efficiency.