Condom Prices Set to Rise as Iran Conflict Hits Raw Materials

The world’s largest condom manufacturer, Karex, has warned that prices could rise by up to 30% or more if ongoing disruptions linked to the Iran conflict continue to affect the supply of key raw materials.

“The situation is definitely very fragile, prices are expensive… We have no choice but to transfer the costs right now to ⁠the customers,” said Karex Chief Executive Goh Miah Kiat.

Karex produces more than 5 billion condoms annually and supplies major global brands such as Durex and Trojan, as well as public health systems including Britain’s NHS and international aid programmes run by the United Nations.

According to Goh, production costs have surged significantly since the conflict began, affecting essential inputs used in manufacturing.

Since the conflict began in late February, Karex has seen costs increase for everything from synthetic rubber and nitrile ‌used ⁠in manufacturing condoms to packaging materials and lubricants such as aluminium foils and silicone oil, Goh said.

The company also warned that global supply chain disruptions are worsening delays and increasing operational pressures across the industry.

Supply Chain Bottlenecks and Shipping Delays

Karex says shipment times have nearly doubled due to logistical disruptions, particularly on key international routes.

Karex’s shipments to destinations such as Europe ⁠and the United States are now taking close to two months to arrive, compared to a month previously.

“We’re seeing a lot more condoms actually sitting on vessels that have not ⁠arrived at their destination but are highly required,” Goh said, adding that delays are worsening shortages in developing countries.

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Rising Demand and Global Shortages

Despite the challenges, demand for condoms has surged significantly this year, adding further pressure to supply chains already under strain.

“Demand for condoms has risen about 30% this year, with shipping disruptions further exacerbating shortages,” he said.

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Goh also linked global shortages to reduced funding in international health programmes and aid cuts that have affected stockpiling in several regions.

Karex Braces for Continued Volatility

The company says it currently has enough stock for the coming months but is preparing for continued volatility in the market as geopolitical tensions persist.

The condom maker joins a growing list of companies, including medical glove producers, facing supply chain bottlenecks as global energy and petrochemical flows remain unstable.

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Goh Miah Kiat, CEO of Karex Condom Manufacturer, speaks during an interview with Reuters at Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, on April 21, 2026. PHOTO/