Author: AMMEX

As we look back at 2025, it is easy to surmise that the US disposable glove market has been volatile but resilient, driven by strong demand across healthcare, industrial, and personal care sectors despite economic headwinds and the impact of tariffs on imports.

Global consumption of nitrile gloves, the most popular material, has surpassed 400 billion gloves, with Southeast Asia continuing to supply over 80% of the worldwide output. At the same time, the US domestic production remains minimal due to high production costs and scalability challenges.

Overall, tariffs, logistics, and supply chain have impacted the 2025 disposable glove market in ways rarely seen before.  Despite pricing pressures, demand remains resilient, and the need for disposable gloves continues to grow.

Tariff Impact

Sweeping U.S. tariffs on imported gloves have had a substantial impact on sourcing. Since their introduction earlier in 2025, import tariffs on disposable gloves now range between 19% and 70%, with Chinese disposable gloves facing an additional 50% hike on January 1st, 2026.

These tariffs have shifted demand toward Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia), while Chinese suppliers have lost competitiveness in the US market.

Pricing Trends

Naturally, prices on disposable gloves are rising due to several factors. Outside of tariffs, higher raw material costs (especially NBR for nitrile gloves), increased logistics costs from port congestion, container shortages, and energy price volatility all contributed to price impacts in 2025. Spot orders and short-term sourcing continue to be risky; strategic sourcing and long-term contracts are recommended.

Logistics & Supply Chain

Shipping lanes from Southeast Asia to the U.S. were subject to volatile freight rates in 2025. US domestic freight costs are rising due to labor shortages and compliance costs. Environmental regulations on shipping have slowly been further adding to cost pressures.

Demand Outlook

Despite all the dynamic challenges outlined above, demand for disposable gloves remains steady and recession-resistant, especially in healthcare and industrial sectors. Buyers are advised to plan and maintain strong supplier relationships to mitigate risk.

Throughout 2025, AMMEX continued to proactively work to mitigate the impact of market conditions on our partners. Looking forward, we will continue to evaluate the market and update our partners on any changes in market conditions.

Disposable gloves are a frontline defense in countless industries from healthcare and food service to automotive and janitorial work. They protect workers from harmful substances and prevent contamination of products and environments. But here’s the catch: gloves only work if they’re used correctly. Improper donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) can compromise safety, leading to contamination, infection, or chemical exposure.

The Risks of Getting It Wrong

When gloves are donned incorrectly, contaminants can transfer from hands to the glove’s exterior. Similarly, improper removal can expose your skin to hazardous substances lingering on the glove surface. According to CDC guidelines, the outside of gloves should always be considered contaminated, and touching them with bare hands during removal is a major risk factor for self-contamination.

Best Practices for Donning Gloves

1. Start Clean: Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before putting on gloves. Remove any jewelry that could tear the material.
2. Inspect Before Use: Check for pinholes, tears, or defects. Even a small breach can allow harmful substances through.
3. Avoid Touching the Outside: Handle gloves by the cuff and only touch the inside during donning. This minimizes contamination risk.
4. Ensure Proper Fit: Gloves should fit snugly without overstretching, which can cause tears.

Safe Doffing Techniques

• Peel, Don’t Pull: Grasp the outside of one glove near the wrist and peel it away, turning it inside out. Hold it in the gloved hand.
• Slide Under the Cuff: With your ungloved hand, slide fingers under the remaining glove at the wrist and peel it off over the first glove, creating a “bag” for both. Discard immediately in an appropriate container.
• Finish with Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands after glove removal to eliminate any residual contamination.

Check out our donning and doffing flyer for more information.

Why It Matters for Your Business

Proper glove use isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your team, your customers, and your brand. A single lapse can lead to cross-contamination, product recalls, or even workplace injuries. Training staff on correct donning and doffing procedures is a small investment with a big payoff in safety and trust.

Gloves are a critical barrier, but they’re not foolproof. Their effectiveness depends on how you use them. By following best practices for donning and doffing, you ensure maximum protection for everyone involved.