• Karex plans to raise condom prices by 20% to 30% due to supply chain disruptions from the Iran war.
• The company reports a significant increase in demand for condoms, rising about 30% this year.
• Shipping delays have resulted in decreased stockpiles for many customers worldwide.
• Production costs for materials have surged, with some input prices doubling.
• Karex's shipping times have increased from one month to nearly two months for delivery.

Karex, the world’s largest condom maker based in Malaysia, announced plans to increase prices by **20% to 30%**, attributing this to supply chain disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran war. CEO Goh Miah Kiat stated that escalating costs of synthetic rubber and other materials, coupled with rising freight expenses, have forced this decision. “The situation is definitely very fragile, prices are expensive,” he remarked, emphasizing the necessity of passing these costs onto customers... according to SCMP, BBC, and CBS News.

The conflict has severely impacted the **Strait of Hormuz**, a key passage for global oil supplies, which has consequently disrupted the flow of materials required for condom production. Almost **20%** of the world's crude oil typically transits through this region, affecting the procurement of essential raw materials for Karex, such as silicone-based lubricants and latex preservatives. Goh noted, “If you have a baby right now, you'll have one more mouth to feed,” highlighting the increased need for condoms during uncertain economic times... according to SCMP, and BBC.

Karex has seen a **30% rise** in global condom demand this year, compounded by significant shipping delays that have left many customers with inadequate stock. Previously, the company’s shipments to major regions like the **U.S. and Europe** took about one month but have now extended to nearly two months. Goh pointed out that many products are currently sitting on vessels while they await delivery, exacerbating the ongoing shortages... according to SCMP, BBC, and CBS News.