Glovemakers call for govt relief amid Iran conflict

2026-03-26 - 07:50

In 2025, the gloves sector recorded RM14 billion in export value, accounting for about 64% of the nation’s total rubber product exports. PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s rubber glove industry needs urgent government intervention as the ongoing West Asia conflict has triggered a shortage of key raw materials and pushed up costs, says a manufacturers’ association. The Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association (Margma) urged Putrajaya to engage local producers of nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), a petroleum-based material used in glove production, to prioritise supply for domestic manufacturers. Margma president Oon Kim Hung said the disruption of shipping routes due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz had constrained NBR supply, threatening global medical glove supplies and placing immense financial strain on Malaysian manufacturers. He also noted that Malaysia accounts for about 45% of global rubber glove supply, meaning prolonged disruption could affect healthcare systems worldwide and dent the country’s reputation as a reliable exporter of personal protective equipment. “A swift, collaborative public-private response is vital to protect local jobs, support the economy and ensure global hospitals do not face a critical shortage of life-saving protective gear,” he said in a statement. Oon also requested that the government grant manufacturers temporary relief from gas “take-or-pay” (TOP) obligations, including by way of rebates, waivers or contractual volume adjustments until supply stabilises. TOP clauses require buyers to either accept goods or pay a penalty, ensuring risk-sharing between suppliers and buyers. Malaysian glovemakers export to more than 195 countries. In 2025, the sector recorded RM14 billion in export value, accounting for about 64% of the nation’s total rubber product exports.