As the tea industry bounced back after a slump,the future of the rubber industry looks positive with the demand for Sri Lankan natural rubber gaining momentum from western countries, rubber industry sources revealed.

Western countries like America, United Kingdom and Germany look for Sri Lankan natural rubber with immediate South Asian neighbors,India and Pakistan too indicating a keen interest in the product.

The price of a smoked rubber kilo was Rs.192 last week while crepe rubber fetched Rs.185, rates most commendable in recent times.

Sources added that these prices indicated a better future for  our natural rubber products and it was a positive signal to the industry.

Meanwhile, the tea industry which experienced a set back due to global recession, has come back with a strong demand and recognition.

The price of a kilo of low grown tea stood at Rs.442 while high grown fetched Rs.309 per kilo with the quantum offered at the last auction being 5 billion kilos. (MP)