Will Indians stop having sex due to the ongoing Middle East conflict? While the question sounds ridiculous, the Iran-US–Israel conflict might have just put the condom industry at a standstill.
This geopolitical conflict is quietly affecting the Rs 8,000 crore condom industry in India, which is grappling with supply disruptions. The repercussions of the situation could result in rising costs and growing public health concerns.
What happened to the condom industry?
According to the Indian Express, India produces over 400 crore condoms annually, but manufacturing depends heavily on petrochemical-based inputs such as silicone oil (used for lubrication) and ammonia (used to stabilise latex).
These materials are largely sourced from Gulf nations, and the ongoing conflict has choked the shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, manufacturers are facing shortages and sharp cost increases—ammonia prices alone have risen by 40–50 per cent.
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“A price increase of 40–50 per cent is expected for ammonia, which is essential for condom production. There has been a significant rise in the price of silicone oil, leading to uncertainty in the market,” an official from a condom manufacturing firm said to IE. This could spike the condom prices in India, resulting in a domino effect that goes beyond economics and would be a huge blow to the health care services in the country.
Role of condoms in everyday life:
Condoms play a critical role in preventing unintended pregnancies and reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A drop in availability or affordability could discourage consistent use—especially among low-income populations who rely on subsidised or low-cost options.
A disruption in the condom manufacturing and pricing can result in reduced condom usage, which may lead to a rise in unplanned pregnancies, putting additional pressure on maternal health care systems.
At the same time, India could see a resurgence in STIs, including HIV, reversing years of progress made through awareness campaigns and government programmes. India's family planning initiatives are also at risk if the disruption to the condom industry is not tackled at the earliest.