How Iran Conflicts Affect The PP Non Woven Supply Chain?
Mar 31, 2026
When the gun goes off, nobody wins.
The supply chain of nonwoven PPE goods was changed unexpectedly.
Which includes: disposable medical mask, isolation gowns, protective coveralls, visitor coats, footcovers, headcovers, disposable bed sheets, etc
The polypropylene raw material cost has increased dramatically
The Strait of Hormuz has been blocked because of Iran's conflicts, and maritime crude oil transport has been suspended.
Approximately 30% of the global seaborne oil trade passes through this strait annually. All of our nonwoven goods are made of crude oil, including the auxiliary materials, such as the plastic buttons, zippers, PE bags, elastic bands, and polyester sewing thread.
As the tide of battle continues to shift, oil prices are also fluctuating significantly.
The price of Polypropylene has recently (Comparing the price before the Iran War, the average price in 2025):
From Mar01~Mar06, 30% higher (Every day fluctuated)
Till Mar 15, 28% higher (Every day fluctuated)
Till Mar 20, 26% higher (Every day fluctuated)
Till Mar 27, 30% higher (Every day fluctuated)
Yesterday (Mar 30), an increase 6%
Today (Mar 31), a decrease 4%
For a total 32% increase since March 1st,2026.
The sea transportation from Wuhan, China, to Europe is over 70 days.
All ships to Europe still need to cross the Cape of Good Hope, instead of crossing red sea area.
The transportation time is around 70 days or more. (Feeder vessel 10 days+marine vessel 57 days + waiting time).
