The benchmark Tokyo rubber contract ended flat on Wednesday as profit-taking emerged after a jump early in the session, but prices were still supported by tight supply in producing countries, dealers said. The benchmark rubber contract on the Tokyo Commodity Exchange for August delivery lost just 0.3 yen to settle at 433.6 yen ($5.38) per kg. Other contracts rose by 1.5 to 5.0 yen.
August jumped 3 percent to a high of 446.9 yen early on Wednesday, prompting some players to take quick profits. "TOCOM rubber should rise further after the price finished above the strong support level at 430 yen," one dealer said. Others noted that demand remained strong while supply was tight. The most active Shanghai rubber contract for May delivery rose 750 yuan to finish at 36,650 yuan ($5,580) per tonne.