The world’s largest condom manufacturer, Karex, on Friday warned of a 30 per cent increase in prices as the Middle East conflict continues to disrupt global supply chains.
The development has triggered widespread reactions in China, where the hashtag “condom prices rising” has attracted over 60 million views on social media, fuelling discussions on possible stockpiling.
The ongoing Iran crisis has affected various aspects of daily life globally, with many Chinese users on Weibo expressing concern that rising costs are now impacting personal and family planning decisions.
Some users noted that higher prices would not discourage purchases, stressing the importance of preventing unintended pregnancies.
Others advised early stocking of supplies in anticipation of further increases.
“A few dozen yuan for a condom is far more cost-effective than raising a child,” one user wrote, while another emphasised the need for both frugality and preparation.
The online reactions came as Chinese authorities intensified efforts to boost the country’s declining birth rate, which reached a record low in 2025, amid concerns over an ageing population.
Karex produces more than five billion condoms annually and supplies major global brands.
The anticipated price increase is expected to add to the rising cost of family planning in China.
Earlier this year, authorities removed a long-standing tax exemption on contraceptive products, subjecting condoms and contraceptive pills to a 13 per cent value-added tax.
A major condom manufacturer with operations in China did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (Reuters/NAN)
