Condom Prices To Increase 30% as US–Iran Conflict Hits Bedrooms Worldwide

The world’s largest condom manufacturer, Karex, has announced plans to increase prices by 20% to 30%, citing the ongoing US–Iran conflict as the main trigger for rising costs.

What’s Driving the Price Hike?

• Supply chain disruption: The conflict has affected key global shipping routes, especially around the Strait of Hormuz.

• Raw material shortages: Essential materials like synthetic rubber, nitrile, silicone oil, and aluminum packaging have become more expensive or harder to source.

• Rising transport costs: Shipping delays have doubled delivery times in some regions. 

Karex CEO Goh Miah Kiat

stated that production costs have surged across the board, leaving the company with “no choice but to pass the cost to consumers.” 

Demand Is Also Rising

Global condom demand has increased by about 30%

Stockpiles are shrinking due to delayed shipments and reduced international aid supplies 

This combination of higher demand + lower supply is accelerating the price surge.

Global Impact

Karex produces over 5 billion condoms annually and supplies major brands like Durex and Trojan.

Public health systems and aid programs, especially in developing regions, may face shortages and higher costs.

Experts warn this could worsen access to contraception in vulnerable countries. 

Bigger Picture

This is part of a wider economic ripple effect:

The war has already pushed up fuel and food prices.

Now, even basic health products are being affected.