Physical rubber prices turned better on Thursday. The market improved on supply concerns following widespread rains during the past 48 hours. A firm closing in the international futures lent further support at lower levels, though domestic futures lost initial gains on late trades. However the gains were limited indicating that the market was still under pressure on higher production, stocks and imports. The trend was partially mixed.

Sheet rubber increased to Rs 205 (204) a kg, according to traders. The grade moved up to Rs 204.50 (203.50) a kg both at Kottayam and Kochi, as reported by the Rubber Board. The August series slipped to Rs 205.01 (206.54), September to Rs 203.70 (203.94), October to Rs 202.50 (203.90), November to Rs 202.02 (204), December to Rs 203.70 (204.70) and January to Rs 205.50 (207.27) a kg for RSS 4 on the National Multi Commodity Exchange.

RSS 3 (spot) firmed up to Rs 212.57 (209.93) a kg at Bangkok. The August futures increased to ¥353.5 (Rs 209.19) from ¥352 during the day session and then to ¥360 (Rs 213.11) a kg in the night session on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange.

Spot rates were (Rs/kg): RSS-4: 205 (204); RSS-5: 201 (200); Ungraded: 194 (192); ISNR 20: 203 (203) and latex 60 per cent: 132 (132).

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