A rubber glove shortage could be coming, experts warn

The article warns healthcare professionals of an impending rubber glove shortage driven by escalating naphtha prices due to geopolitical tensions in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route. Supply costs have surged by 40%, with experts predicting shortages later this month, potentially impacting medical supplies worldwide.

Erin Brady

May 12, 2026

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Reuters has published an article warning healthcare professionals of a potential rubber glove shortage due to the Iran war.

Naphtha pricing is the main cause of the issue. This is attributed to “the closure of the crucial Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of global oil and gas shipments typically pass.”

According to the article, supply costs are rising and have already jumped by 40% and will likely continue. Experts from Malaysia's RHB and CIMB Securities forecast the shortage could begin later this month.