Condom Prices May Rise Due to Middle East War; Taichung to Add 67 Vending Machines with No Price Increase

(CNA, Taichung, May 18, by reporter Chao Li-yen) The Middle East war has impacted the global supply chain for condoms, with market rumors suggesting a potential 30% price increase. The Taichung City Health Bureau stated today that to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, it plans to install an additional 67 condom vending machines this year, with the price remaining at NT$10 for a box containing two condoms, with no price hike. The Taichung City Council held a regular meeting today, where KMT city councilor Chang Ching-fen expressed concern over the impact of the Middle East war. The nationwide rise in oil prices and raw material costs has led to a shortage of condoms, with fears that prices could rise by 30%, raising concerns about a public health gap. KMT city councilor Chen Cheng-hsien suggested that the city government should monitor the supply and sales of condoms. Mayor Lu Shiow-yen responded that condoms are related to disease prevention as well as reproduction. Due to the international situation, transportation difficulties and rising raw material costs caused by the war have already led to a global increase in condom prices, with market demand abnormally increasing by 30%. She emphasized that whether sold in pharmacies or general stores, the city government is closely monitoring and managing price and volume changes for condoms. Health Bureau Director-General Tseng Tzu-chan pointed out that to promote STD prevention and health education, Taichung City currently has 36 condom vending machines, making it convenient for those in need to purchase them. An additional 67 condom vending machines are planned for this year, bringing the city's total to 103 by the end of the year. The Health Bureau added that the 36 current condom vending machines in Taichung are located in places such as university campuses and parks. The condom kits sold in these machines, which contain two condoms and two packs of lubricant, have been priced at NT$10 per box since 2024, with no price adjustment, and the machines are restocked as needed. (Editor: Lee Hsi-chang) 1150518