U.S. explores domestic rubber production to reduce foreign reliance

The United States is exploring the possibility of producing its own rubber to reduce reliance on foreign imports. According to Kate Morgan of Ambrook Research, scientists, farmers, and major corporations are collaborating to establish a domestic rubber production industry. Currently, the U.S. imports nearly all of the 1.5 million metric tons of rubber it consumes, valued at approximately $2 billion, primarily from Southeast Asia.

American rubber production could begin with the cultivation of rubber plants such as guayule, which grows naturally in parts of Texas and Mexico and can be easily farmed in the region. Guayule is drought-tolerant and resistant to disease, making it a strong candidate for domestic rubber production. The plant can be processed to produce high-quality natural latex, suitable for manufacturing a variety of products including surgical gloves and car parts.

Historically, the U.S. has avoided rubber plant production due to the labor-intensive process required for harvesting Hevea, the most commonly used rubber plant. However, guayule and other rubber-producing plants can be mechanically harvested, reducing labor costs. This presents opportunities for farmers, particularly in areas facing challenges with irrigation and cultivation.

The next step in establishing a domestic rubber industry is the development of processing infrastructure. Katrina Cornish, a professor at Ohio State University, noted that while there are farmers ready to grow rubber crops and companies interested in purchasing the latex, a full-scale processing plant is necessary. The estimated cost for such a facility is around $70 million. Cornish indicated that once refined, rubber from guayule could significantly alter the current rubber supply chain.