Condom prices surge as Iran conflict disrupts global supply chains.
Photo Credit: Mikhail Tyrsyna / Unsplash
Sex could soon become more expensive across Europe, as condom prices are set to rise by up to 30 per cent following supply disruptions linked to the Iran conflict. The warning comes from Malaysia based manufacturer Karex Berhad, the world’s largest producer, which supplies major brands such as Durex and Trojan, as well as public health systems including the National Health Service.
Birth control to break the bank: Cost to consumers could rise from 20%-30% or more
“According to Karex CEO Goh Miah Kiat, the expected price increase is being driven by rising freight costs and ongoing shipping delays linked to the conflict, with deliveries to Europe and the US now taking significantly longer than usual. The company, which produces more than 5 billion condoms each year, has seen demand surge by around 30 per cent, leaving some customers facing tighter supplies.
“The situation is definitely very fragile, prices are expensive… We have no choice but to transfer the costs right now to the customers,” Goh said in an interview with Reuters.”
Strait of Hormuz waterway conflict spiking costs
Global oil supply has been dramatically decreased since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz waterway, through which around a fifth of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas, as well as other petrochemicals, passes. Condoms are one of the products that heavily rely on materials derived from oil, including ammonia, which is used to preserve latex, and silicone-based lubricants.
Since the beginning of the conflict in late February 2026, costs have also increased for synthetic rubber and nitrile, which is used in the manufacturing of the condoms, as well as packaging materials like aluminium foils and lubricants like silicone oil.
“We’re seeing a lot more condoms actually sitting on vessels that have not arrived at their destination but are highly required,” Goh said.
A bottleneck for essential materials: Everything from fruit to medical gloves
Other companies raising their prices due to supply disruptions caused by the Iran conflict include medical glove makers, fertiliser, bottled water, computer chips, and other products that rely on transport through affected areas of the conflict. Sugar, dairy, and fruit prices are also projected to climb for consumers.
The Iran conflict has also triggered a surge in air fares due to a shortage of jet fuel caused by the closure of the Strait, with the lowest-priced economy tickets costing 24 per cent more on average than they did just one year ago. The shortage has also triggered cancellations and delays for travellers, just ahead of peak season.
