The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is sending shockwaves through global supply chains, sharply raising the cost of energy and petrochemical-derived raw materials. As a result, Malaysia’s rubber glove industry, which produces nearly 45% of the world’s supply, is facing heightened pressure. Surging prices for butadiene, a key component of nitrile latex, have climbed nearly 70% since the crisis began, disrupting production schedules and export commitments. How can the rubber glove sector maintain competitiveness in an increasingly volatile global market? And what measures can Malaysian glove makers take to strengthen supply-chain resilience?

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