Carex Plans Up to 30% Price Increase in Condom Production Amid Raw Material Shortages

Carex, the world’s largest condom manufacturer, is preparing to raise production prices by 30 percent or more due to raw material shortages caused by the Iran conflict. Carex CEO Go Mia Kiat stated that since the war began, production costs have significantly increased, and rising transportation expenses and delays have intensified market shortages.

The company reported that the war with Iran has exerted pressure on energy markets and the prices of daily consumer goods, while condom demand has surged by approximately 30 percent during this period of economic uncertainty. In an interview with Reuters and Bloomberg, Malaysia-based CEO Go Mia Kiat highlighted the notable increase in production costs since the conflict began.

Carex, which produces over 500 million condoms annually—including for globally renowned brands like ‘Durex’ and ‘Trojan’—has been affected by disruptions to oil supply caused by Iran’s threats to block shipments through the Strait of Hormuz following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes.

The company explained that lubricants, which are ammonia and silicone-based and essential for condom production, rely heavily on oil-derived materials, making prices vulnerable to the war’s impact. Specifically, condom demand rises by nearly 30 percent during times of economic crisis or uncertainty. CEO Kiat noted that individuals tend to use family planning methods more actively when facing fears of increased financial burdens amid uncertain futures and employment situations.