Condom Prices to Rise Because of US/Iran War

The world’s largest condom manufacturer, Karex Bhd, has announced plans to increase prices by as much as 20 to 30 percent, citing ongoing supply chain disruptions linked to the US/Iran war.

Chief Executive Officer Goh Miah Kiat said the company is facing rising production and shipping costs, leaving it with little choice but to pass those expenses on to customers. Karex, which produces more than five billion condoms annually, supplies major global brands including Durex and Trojan, as well as public health systems such as the National Health Service and United Nations aid programs.

According to Goh, the conflict has disrupted key supply chains, particularly in the Middle East, affecting the availability and cost of essential raw materials like synthetic rubber, nitrile, aluminium foil, and silicone oil. These materials are critical in condom manufacturing and packaging.

At the same time, global demand for condoms has surged by approximately 30 percent this year. The increase is being driven in part by shipping delays and reduced stockpiles, especially in developing countries that rely heavily on international aid and imports.

Karex reports that delivery times to major markets such as Europe and the United States have nearly doubled—from about one month to close to two months—due to ongoing logistical challenges. As a result, large quantities of products remain in transit while shortages persist in key regions.

Despite maintaining sufficient supplies for the coming months, the company says it is working to ramp up production to meet growing demand. However, executives warn that continued instability in global supply chains could push prices even higher.