The global solution styrene-butadiene rubber (S-SBR) market is forecast to grow from an estimated US$4.2 billion in 2024 to US$6 billion by 2030, according to Research and Markets. The report puts the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the period at 6.1%.
Demand for high-performance and fuel-efficient tires is central to the outlook. S-SBR is a synthetic rubber used where abrasion resistance, tensile strength and flexibility are required. In tires, those properties support wet grip and lower rolling resistance compared with traditional rubber materials, the report says.
Tire demand anchors growth
The automotive industry is expected to remain the largest source of demand. Tire applications are projected to reach US$4.7 billion by 2030, growing at a 6.5% CAGR and making tires the largest and fastest-growing segment in the report. Automakers are seeking tires that combine safety, durability and fuel efficiency, which is encouraging the use of advanced rubber materials.
Electric vehicles are identified as an additional opportunity. Expanding EV production and sales could increase S-SBR use in EV tires, although the report frames this as a potential driver rather than a guaranteed outcome.
Technology and other applications
Developments in polymerization and processing are widening the range of available S-SBR grades. The report points to tailored polymer properties, nanotechnology and advanced fillers as ways to improve mechanical performance and durability. Improvements in solution polymerization and mixing processes are also described as supporting production efficiency and product quality.
Beyond tires, footwear is forecast to grow at a 5.7% CAGR, supported by demand for durable and flexible materials. S-SBR also appears in adhesives and sealants, polymer modification and other industrial uses. The report sees opportunities in adhesives and sealants and in a recovery of the global construction sector, with infrastructure investment, construction activity and urbanization potentially supporting demand for construction-related materials.
Regional and competitive picture
The United States market was valued at US$799.4 million in 2024. China is forecast to grow at a 7.9% CAGR and reach US$1.2 billion by 2030. Asia-Pacific is highlighted as an important growth region, while North America and Europe are also described as significant opportunities. The report also examines Japan, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, India, South Korea and other markets.
The supplier landscape includes established chemical manufacturers and rubber industry participants. Companies named in the report include ARLANXEO, Asahi Kasei, Chi Mei, Dynasol, Goodyear, JSR, LANXESS, LG Chem, SIBUR, Sinopec, Sumitomo Chemical Asia, Synthos, Taiwan Synthetic Rubber, Trinseo and Versalis. Vertical integration and a strategic focus on tire applications are among the competitive strategies identified.
Risks and outlook
The growth outlook is not without constraints. International trade developments, supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainty are cited as challenges. The report says it incorporates updated analysis of tariff developments across more than 180 countries and considers their potential effects on sourcing, supply chains and geographic market positioning. It also includes revised forecasts through 2030, historical performance from 2015 to 2023 and 2025 competitive share estimates.
Overall, the report positions S-SBR for continued expansion as automakers seek materials that support tire performance, fuel efficiency and vehicle safety. Tire demand and regional growth, especially in China, remain the main contributors in the forecast, while technology, EV adoption and industrial applications are expected to create additional opportunities.