Hard times ahead: Why a pack of condoms could soon cost 30 percent more

Condom prices could soon join petrol on the list of cost hikes caused by the ongoing conflict in Iran.

The world’s largest condom manufacturer, Karex, says it’s planning to lift prices by as much as 30% due to rising production costs, with raw materials and shipping taking a hit.

Chief executive Goh Miah Kiat told Reuters the increases have been driven by ongoing disruption in global oil and freight markets since the conflict escalated.

Karex produces over a whopping five billion condoms a year and supplies popular brands including Durex and Trojan.

Why are condom prices going up?

It comes down to the Strait of Hormuz - one of the world’s busiest shipping routes - where Iran continues to threaten disruption. 

Around a fifth of global oil and gas is shipped through the Strait, so when movement is disrupted, it can be felt far and wide, pushing up fuel, freight, and manufacturing prices - which we’ve already seen at gas pumps around Aotearoa.

And now condoms are caught up in it, too.

They’re made using materials that rely on oil and gas, including ammonia for preserving latex and silicone-based lubricants. So, as the conflict continues, global energy and shipping costs are directly affecting production prices.

Infometrics chief executive and principal economist Brad Olsen told Stuff synthetic rubber - used to make condoms - has jumped around 40% in price between January and April 2026.

When will condom prices go up in NZ?

According to Olsen, it can take a few months for price hikes to show up on supermarket shelves here.

“It can take 3-6 months for retail prices to be directly impacted by higher wholesale costs,” he said via Stuff.

“With condom prices already seeing increases in retail prices from the distributor, we’d expect to see these price increases hit New Zealand over the next few months.”

At the time of writing, the average price for a box of classic 20-pack of Durex condoms ranges between $17-$23 NZD. With a potential 30% increase, those prices could reach $22-$30 per pack.

It’s something worth keeping an eye on, because condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against both unplanned pregnancies and most sexually transmitted infections.

For Kiwis, condoms can sometimes be accessed more cheaply or even for free through prescriptions or sexual health services, which could make things a bit easier on your wallet if and when prices on shelves increase.

But Olsen explains that it just shifts the pressure somewhere else in the system, “including Pharmac, may need to swallow more of the price increase on condoms.”

We found a way to get your hands on free condoms and lube - while finding the right fit for you - by requesting a free “fit kit” through the Burnett Foundation.

We’re not saying it’s time to go and panic buy the things, but it may pay to check your supply and stock up if you’re running low.