Overview
- Karex, which told Reuters on Tuesday, said it will lift condom prices by about 20% to 30% and could go higher if disruptions continue.
- Company costs have climbed roughly 25% to 30% since late February as prices jump for oil‑derived inputs like nitrile latex, silicone oil, natural rubber, and foil packaging.
- Shipments to Europe and the United States now take close to two months instead of one, with large consignments stuck on vessels and not reaching shelves.
- Global demand is up about 30% this year while public stockpiles are low after aid cuts, raising shortage risks for developing countries and aid programs.
- The Strait of Hormuz slowdown has squeezed petrochemical feedstocks that condoms rely on, and experts note these materials are now scarce, which could also hit brands supplied by Karex such as Durex, Trojan, and national health services.