Extreme Weather Conditions in Asia
Extreme Weather Conditions in Asia: What They Mean for Latex Gloves and Natural Rubber Products
Contents
- Extreme Weather Conditions in Asia: What They Mean for Latex Gloves and Natural Rubber Products
- Sources
Background: Tropical Storm, Record Rainfall and Affected Regions
The agricultural and industrial sectors in Southeast Asia are currently being hit by a severe natural disaster: Tropical storm Cyclone Senyar, which formed over the Strait of Malacca and the southern Andaman Sea [1] – a region that is one of the world’s key natural rubber cultivation areas.
Southern Thailand and the Malay Peninsula (Malaysia) are particularly affected, as well as Sumatra (Indonesia), where Senyar has triggered extreme rainfall, flooding and landslides [1]. In the southern Thai city of Hat Yai, an extraordinary 335 mm of rain fell within just 24 hours on 21 November – the highest daily rainfall recorded in approximately 300 years [2]. Around 630 mm were measured over three days [2].
These extreme rainfall levels and ongoing storm activity have flooded plantations, damaged infrastructure and turned entire provinces into disaster zones [3]. The countries most severely affected include:
- Thailand – southern provinces such as Songkhla (Hat Yai), Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat [3]
- Malaysia – west coast and regions along the Strait of Malacca [1]
- Indonesia (Sumatra) – particularly Aceh and West Sumatra [1]
- Sri Lanka – also heavily impacted by flooding
Impact on Plantations, Production and Supply Chains
Flooded Plantations and Crop Failures
Large areas of natural rubber plantations are underwater due to persistent rainfall. Harvesting has been halted or is currently impossible in many locations. This significantly affects both current and future rubber production volumes.
Production Downtime Due to Power Outages and Impassable Roads
Numerous industrial zones are experiencing power failures, forcing machinery, drying facilities and vulcanisation processes to shut down. At the same time, access roads are flooded or destroyed. Workers are unable to reach factories in many areas – resulting in complete production stoppages.
Logistical Challenges and Risks for Maritime Transport
Tropical storm Senyar continues to move towards the Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes linking the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea [4]. Rough seas, strong winds and high waves are causing delays, anchorage congestion and possible rerouting of vessels. Shipments of natural rubber and latex products are also affected.
Consequences for Latex Gloves and Natural Rubber Products
Given the central importance of the affected regions for global natural rubber production, the following effects are likely:
- Delivery delays due to raw material shortages and production shutdowns
- Shortages of specific latex grades and product types
- Volatile price developments caused by reduced availability and market uncertainty
- Limited production capacity for latex gloves and other natural rubber items
Our Measures and Recommendations
We are in continuous dialogue with our partners on the ground to stay informed about the situation and any potential impact on the supply chain. Existing orders are being prioritised, stock levels reviewed and alternative materials (e.g. nitrile) evaluated.
We recommend that our customers:
- plan their requirements for latex gloves and natural rubber products at an early stage,
- allow for longer lead times,
- consider alternative materials where appropriate.
Conclusion
Tropical storm Senyar and the record rainfall across Southeast Asia are severely affecting crucial natural rubber regions and therefore significantly disrupting global supply chains. From flooded plantations and power outages to disruptions in maritime transport along the Strait of Malacca, almost every part of the value chain is impacted. This is leading to short-term delivery delays, potential shortages and noticeable price fluctuations in latex gloves and other natural rubber products.
Sources
- Cyclone Senyar (Wikipedia)
- Hat Yai – Heaviest Rainfall in 300 Years (The Thaiger)
- Analysis of the Flooding in Southern Thailand (Khao Sod English)
- Strait of Malacca (Wikipedia)
Photo: Arnun Chonmahatrakool/AP/dpa