Condom Giant Warns of 30% Price Hike Amid War

The world's leading condom manufacturer, Karex Bhd, based in Malaysia, is implementing a price hike of 20% to 30% due to escalating costs. These increases are attributed to supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the Iran war, impacting petrochemical flows and raw material procurement. The company has observed significant cost escalations for materials such as synthetic rubber, nitrile, packaging, and lubricants.

Furthermore, Karex is reporting a notable increase in condom demand, estimated at 30% this year. This surge, coupled with extended shipping durations of up to two months, has led to lower-than-usual inventory levels for many of its customers. The manufacturer, which produces over 5 billion condoms annually and supplies major brands and health systems, anticipates further price adjustments if supply chain issues persist.