Condom Production Hit in India as West Asia Conflict Disrupts Raw Material Supply

The ongoing West Asia conflict has hit the condom production industry in India. The country's $860 million condom manufacturing industry is affected due to the blockage of essential raw materials such as petrochemicals and lubricants, which are required to manufacture the most in-demand men's products.

The condom industry in India, which produces over 400 crore units annually, is currently facing high production costs due to a shortage of raw material, according to The Indian Express report. 

Also Read | LPG Price Hike: 19 Kg Commercial Gas Cylinder Prices Increased by Rs 195.50, No Changes In Domestic Rates.

India-based condom manufacturing giant HLL Lifecare Ltd, which produces about 221 crore condoms annually, Mankind Pharma Ltd, and Cupid Ltd are all currently grappling with the supply chain shock. 

What Raw Materials Are Required to Produce Condoms?

There are two essential materials required in the manufacturing of condoms: Silicone oil and ammonia. Silicone oil is used as a lubricant, and this material is facing a shortage due to import problems amid the war. 

Ammonia is used to stabilise raw latex and its prices are expected to increase by 40–50%. The price of PVC foil, aluminium foil, and packaging materials has also impacted production and order execution. 

Centre has already warned of an increase in the prices of petrochemicals and also said that 35% reduction in resource allocation to protect higher-priority sectors, further squeezing products such as condoms.