World’s Top Condom Maker Warns of 20–30% Price Hike Amid Iran War Supply Disruptions

The world’s largest condom manufacturer says prices could rise sharply as ongoing conflict involving Iran continues to disrupt global supply chains.

The chief executive of Karex Berhad, Goh Miah Kiat, told Reuters that the company may increase prices by 20% to 30% depending on how long the disruptions persist. He said the crisis has strained supply routes since late February, including restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping corridor.

Goh noted that rising manufacturing, packaging, and shipping costs are forcing the company to consider passing expenses on to customers. He also warned of delays in delivery, with shipments of condoms currently stuck in transit despite high demand in destination markets.

Based in Malaysia, Karex produces condoms, lubricants, and medical-grade latex products, exporting to more than 130 countries. The company manufactures over 5 billion condoms annually under various brands, including ONE, Trustex, Carex, and Pasante.

According to the CEO, Karex has enough stock to maintain supply for only a few months if disruptions continue.

Beyond logistics challenges, the conflict has also driven up the cost of petrochemical “feedstocks” used in production. Key materials such as naphtha, silicon oil, and ammonia—essential for manufacturing condoms and packaging—are becoming more expensive and harder to source.

Industry experts say the situation is part of a broader supply chain strain affecting oil, gas, and petrochemical markets. With Asia heavily dependent on Middle Eastern imports, shortages are already forcing some countries to ration fuel and increasing pressure on manufacturing sectors.

Economists warn that rising energy and raw material costs could eventually lead to higher consumer prices and slower industrial output across multiple sectors, extending beyond oil and fuel into everyday goods.