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 November 2026 report published by Research and Markets. The report puts the compound annual growth rate for the 2024–2030 period at 6.1%.
S-SBR is a synthetic rubber valued for high abrasion resistance, strong tensile strength and enhanced flexibility. In high-performance tires it contributes to better fuel efficiency, improved wet grip and lower rolling resistance than traditional rubber materials, which the report identifies as the basis for its demand outlook.
Tires anchor the forecast
The tire application segment is projected to reach US$4.7 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 6.5%, making it both the largest and the fastest-growing application covered in the study. The automotive industry is expected to remain the main source of demand through the forecast period, as manufacturers adopt advanced rubber materials to meet requirements for safety, durability and fuel efficiency.
Growth in the wider market is also attributed to rising demand for high-performance and fuel-efficient tires, advances in rubber manufacturing technology, and expanding use across automotive, footwear, adhesives and polymer modification applications.
Process innovation and electric vehicles
Developments in polymerization and processing are described as broadening the performance and versatility of S-SBR. Innovations in polymerization techniques allow manufacturers to produce grades tailored to specific applications, while nanotechnology and advanced fillers are credited with improving mechanical performance and durability. Improvements in solution polymerization and advanced mixing processes are said to raise production efficiency and product quality. Research and development spending by major industry participants is expected to support further innovation.
The report also flags the adoption of electric vehicles as a potential growth opportunity, identifying expanding EV production and sales as a factor that could increase the use of S-SBR in electric vehicle tires.
Applications beyond tires
Footwear is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% over the forecast period, supported by demand for durable and flexible materials. S-SBR is also used in adhesives and sealants, polymer modification and other industrial applications, and the report points to opportunities linked to the adhesives and sealants industry as well as a recovery in global construction. Infrastructure investment, construction activity and urbanization are cited as factors that could support demand for materials used in construction-related applications.
Regional variation
The United States market was valued at US$799.4 million in 2024. China is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 7.9% and reach US$1.2 billion by 2030. The report also examines developments in Japan, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, India, South Korea and other countries and regions, with Asia-Pacific highlighted as an important growth region while North America and Europe are described as significant opportunities for market participants.
Competitive landscape and risks
The global market features established chemical manufacturers and rubber industry participants competing through product development, technological innovation and strategic positioning. 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
- Versalis S.p.A.
Vertical integration and a strategic focus on tire applications are among the competitive strategies the report identifies.
Against the positive outlook, the market faces challenges connected to international trade developments, supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainty. The report incorporates updated analysis of tariff developments across more than 180 countries, including their potential effects on sourcing, supply chains and geographic market positioning, alongside revised forecasts through 2030, historical performance from 2015 to 2023 and competitive market share estimates for 2025. Those factors are expected to remain relevant as manufacturers weigh production strategy, regional expansion and investment.
The report concludes that the market is positioned for continued expansion as automotive manufacturers seek materials that support tire performance, fuel efficiency and vehicle safety, with automotive demand and regional growth in China cited as important contributors.