Karex Berhad, the world’s largest manufacturer of condoms, has announced plans to increase prices by 20 to 30 percent, citing supply chain disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The Malaysia-based company produces more than five billion condoms annually and supplies major global brands, as well as public health systems and international aid programmes. Its clients include national healthcare providers and organizations distributing contraceptives in developing countries.

Chief Executive Officer Goh Miah Kiat said the conflict, which escalated in late February, has driven up the cost of key raw materials and production inputs. Prices have risen for synthetic rubber and nitrile—both essential in condom manufacturing—as well as for packaging components such as aluminium foil and lubricants like silicone oil.

“The situation is very fragile, and costs have increased significantly. We have no choice but to pass these costs on to customers,” Goh said.

The company is also experiencing a surge in demand, as shipping delays and rising freight costs have left many distributors with depleted inventories. According to Goh, delivery times to key markets in Europe and the United States have nearly doubled, extending from about one month to almost two months.

“We are seeing a growing volume of shipments still in transit and yet urgently needed at their destinations,” he added.

The delays have had a pronounced impact on developing countries, where longer shipping times are contributing to shortages. Despite these challenges, Karex said it has sufficient supply for the coming months and is working to increase production to meet rising demand.

Karex joins a number of manufacturers, including medical glove producers, grappling with supply chain bottlenecks as the conflict continues to disrupt the global flow of raw materials.