Iran War Causes Condom Price Hikes, Shortages

0:00The Iran war is hitting folks where it hurts, even in the bedroom, as the world's biggest condom maker warns of price jumps and shortages. Malaysia-based Carrix, which pumps out one in every five condoms sold globally in supplies brands like Durex and Trojan, says it's raising prices by 20 to 30 percent soon because its raw materials stockpiles are running low. Raw materials tied to oil have skyrocketed since the U.S. and Israel offensive kicked off in February. Silicone oil costs are up 30 percent. Nitrile latex has doubled and strict medical regs make switching suppliers tough. On top of that, shipping delays in freight hikes are leaving condoms stuck on ships while buyers scramble. Demand is surging too, up 30 percent this year alone, as cuts to foreign aid programs push aid groups in poorer countries to buy from commercial. Sources, instead. Stocks cranks out over 5 billion prophylactics yearly for brands, governments and retailers, so this crunch hits everywhere.

1:01The CEO says the situation stays fragile, with more hikes likely if the war drags on, but they have to pass costs to customers now. No word yet from Durex or Trojan's parent companies on how they'll handle it. Even with tougher times ahead, folks might keep buying because uncertainty makes protection more crucial, avoiding extra mouths to feed when jobs hang. Keep an eye on your wallet next time you're stocking up. This has been Calgary News Today, powered by AI.