India's natural rubber economy is entering a new phase, requiring a diversified sourcing model that balances the interests of growers, manufacturers and exporters, according to the All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA). Anay Gupta, president, AIRIA, said Kerala should continue to remain the country's primary rubber-producing State, while the Northeast could emerge as a significant second production hub. Imports should serve as a transparent mechanism to bridge structural supply gaps and stabilize availability during periods of market volatility. India consumed approximately 1.41 million tonne of natural rubber in 2024-25, while domestic production remained significantly lower, leaving a structural supply gap of more than half a million tonne, Gupta said.