Global condom prices are expected to rise sharply as the world’s largest manufacturer warns of significant cost increases linked to the ongoing Iran war, which has disrupted key supply chains and raw materials.
Malaysia based Karex Bhd, which produces more than five billion condoms annually accounting for roughly one in five sold globally, said it may increase prices by up to 30% as production costs surge. The company supplies major international brands and public health systems, meaning the increase is likely to affect markets worldwide.
Chief executive Goh Miah Kiat said the conflict, which escalated on February 28, 2026, has triggered widespread disruption in petrochemical markets, a critical component in condom manufacturing.
The production of condoms relies heavily on oil derived materials such as synthetic rubber, nitrile, ammonia used in latex preservation and silicone based lubricants. With global oil flows affected, prices of these inputs have risen sharply.
Shipping delays have compounded the problem. According to Karex, delivery timelines have doubled from about one month to nearly two months due to disruptions in key maritime routes. Freight costs have also increased, adding further pressure on manufacturers.
Much of the disruption is tied to instability in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which around a fifth of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas typically passes. Threats to vessels in the region have slowed or rerouted shipments, creating bottlenecks across industries.
Demand has also surged by about 30% as buyers stockpile supplies amid uncertainty, further tightening availability. Goh said periods of economic instability often lead to increased demand for contraceptives as households become more cautious about long term financial commitments.
He noted that in uncertain times, people tend to be more careful about family planning, with economic pressures influencing consumer behaviour globally. The rising demand, combined with supply shortages, has left manufacturers with limited options but to pass increased costs on to consumers.
Public health systems and aid programmes that rely on affordable condoms could also face budget strain, raising concerns about access in lower income regions.
The impact of the Iran war extends beyond the condom industry. The disruption of petrochemical supply chains is affecting a wide range of goods, from fertilisers to electronics components.
Recent data shows airline fares have also risen, with economy ticket prices increasing compared to last year. Meanwhile, shortages of helium used in semiconductor production and rising fertiliser costs are adding pressure across sectors.
Consumer goods industries are also feeling the strain. Bottled water manufacturers and food producers are facing higher input and transportation costs, with global agencies warning that prices for sugar, dairy and fruit are likely to climb.
The status of diplomatic efforts remains uncertain. United States President Donald Trump recently indicated a ceasefire could be extended while negotiations continue, but markets remain volatile as the situation evolves.
Analysts say that unless supply routes stabilise and petrochemical production recovers, price increases across multiple sectors, including essential health products, could persist in the coming months.
