Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian rubber market closed lower today amid mixed regional rubber futures market performance, as the ringgit strengthened slightly against the US dollar, a dealer said. She noted that market sentiment was affected by uncertainties in relation to the United States tariffs and trade policy amid weaker US economic data.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the US dollar slid in the previous session after weak US jobs and services data, with more significant employment data expected on Friday. The dealer mentioned that the US economy is showing signs of damage due to President Donald Trump's unpredictable tariff actions, while bilateral deals remain unrealized.

At 3 pm, the Malaysian Rubber Board reported that the price of Standard Malaysian Rubber 20 (SMR 20) fell by 8.5 sen to 690.5 sen per kilogramme (kg), while latex in bulk decreased by 4.5 sen to 605 sen per kg. Nevertheless, further losses were limited by gains in crude oil prices and hopes that China will introduce more stimulus measures to boost its economy.