End-UseCategory 1
U.S. imports of primary synthetic rubber (End-Use 16050) totaled $252.4M in April 2026, traded with 82 countries.
Importers of Primary Synthetic Rubber paid $19.7M in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 11% on $183.2M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Primary Synthetic Rubber imports of $252.4M in April 2026 ran 10% above the year-to-date monthly average of $228.9M.
Last updated: April 2026 dataPrimary synthetic rubber — including styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polybutadiene, and other elastomers in unvulcanized, primary forms — is a critical upstream input for tire manufacturing, automotive sealing systems, and industrial hose and belt production. Imported in bales, crumbs, or granules, these materials are priced against petrochemical feedstock costs and compete with natural rubber on performance and price. Trade professionals should note that certain synthetic rubber types have been subject to antidumping proceedings, and the specific polymer type and Mooney viscosity grade can affect both classification and end-use suitability.
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Mooney viscosity is a key specification that determines processability in compounding and end-use suitability — lower viscosity grades are preferred for certain injection-molded applications, while higher viscosity grades suit tire tread compounds. While Mooney viscosity itself does not drive HTS classification (which turns on polymer type and form), it is a critical specification in purchase contracts and quality documentation.
Yes, certain synthetic rubber types — including specific grades of SBR — have been subject to antidumping duty investigations and orders from particular origins. Importers should check the current scope of any active orders with the US International Trade Commission and consult a licensed customs broker before sourcing.
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End-Use codes describe different products on the import and export sides. Cross-direction exports are not shown for this slug.
Monthly import values over time