Rubber firms unfazed by rising costs.

(From Chemical Business NewsBase - The Star (Malaysia))

The rising costs of basic raw materials like SMR 20 and bulk latex have impacted the rubber industry to a great extent in Malaysia. Analysts opine that the small and medium-sized industries would be affected badly as they are not able to cope with the cost increases in fuel, chemical, packaging and logistics since 2003. However, many listed rubber product firms are hopeful that they would be able to cope with the price hike and also manage to increase their net profit margins. At present, the cost of SMR 20 is at a $1.4/kg. Latex-based products manufacturers, particularly rubber gloves, were the major consumer …