World’s Largest Condom Maker to Raise Prices Over Iran War Disruptions

Karex Berhad, the world’s largest producer of condoms, has announced plans to increase prices by 20 to 30 percent due to supply chain disruptions linked to the ongoing Iran war.

The Malaysia-based company manufactures over five billion condoms annually and supplies major global brands such as Durex and Trojan. It also provides products to public health systems like the UK’s NHS and international aid programmes coordinated by the United Nations.

Chief executive officer Goh Miah Kiat told Reuters that since the conflict began in late February, production costs have surged. He cited increases in the prices of raw materials such as synthetic rubber and nitrile, as well as packaging components and lubricants including aluminium foils and silicone oil.

Kiat noted that the company is also experiencing a spike in demand, driven by rising freight costs and shipping delays that have left many customers with reduced stock levels.

“The situation is very fragile and costs have gone up significantly. We have no option but to pass these costs on to customers,” he said.

According to him, shipments to destinations in Europe and the United States now take nearly two months, compared to about one month previously.

He added that many developing countries are already facing shortages due to prolonged delivery timelines, even as demand continues to grow.

While Karex has sufficient inventory for the coming months, the company is exploring ways to ramp up production to meet global needs.

The development places Karex among several manufacturers, including medical glove producers, grappling with supply chain challenges triggered by the conflict, which has disrupted access to essential raw materials.