Ripple Effects of Escalating War Could Drive Condom Prices Up by 30 Percent

Geopolitical tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel are not only affecting global oil prices but are also spilling over into everyday consumer needs, including condoms. The escalating conflict in the Middle East is disrupting global supply chains and triggering price surges in various commodities.

One industry now feeling the impact is the contraceptive device sector. One of the world’s largest condom manufacturers, Karex, has revealed that the company is preparing to raise product prices by up to 30 percent or more if the war continues to disrupt supplies of key raw materials.

Based in Malaysia, Karex produces more than five billion condoms annually. The company also supplies renowned global brands such as Durex and Trojan.

Karex CEO Goh Miah Kiat stated that production costs have surged sharply since the conflict began. This is primarily due to disruptions in global oil supplies following Iran’s response to airstrikes by the United States and Israel with threats to target ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for world energy trade. Approximately one-fifth of the world’s crude oil supply and liquefied natural gas (LNG) typically passes through this route, including various petrochemicals essential for the manufacturing industry.

Karex relies heavily on oil-derived materials such as ammonia, used to preserve latex, as well as silicone-based lubricants. When supplies are disrupted, raw material prices automatically soar.

Not only that, but condom demand has also increased by around 30 percent throughout this year. Higher shipping costs and distribution delays are further exacerbating supply conditions.

“In difficult times, the need to use condoms is even greater because you are uncertain about your future, whether you will still have a job next year,” he said, as quoted from BBC on Thursday, 23 April 2026.

“If you have a baby now, you will have one more mouth to feed.”

This statement illustrates how economic uncertainty caused by the war is making people more cautious in family planning.

The surge in condom prices also serves as a symbol that the US-Israel war with Iran is not only shaking up global energy markets but is also driving up prices of other goods that consumers feel directly.