The value of the public-sector contraceptive market contracted by eight percent in 2021 relative to 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic impact and funding challenges, according to a new report released by The Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and the Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition (RHSC). Decreased procurement of injectables and oral contraceptives drove the market decline, which reached US$263 million in 2021 across 83 low- and middle-income countries. Market volumes decreased in this period by 15 percent. Long-acting methods continue to comprise the majority share of couple-years of protection (CYPs) shipped, with growth in the share of implants and hormonal IUDs. Stakeholders acknowledge that 2021 was a uniquely tough year for contraceptive procurement as COVID-19 presented multiple challenges in the form of funding disruptions, supply chain delays, and increased freight costs. Looking forward, demand for safe, affordable, and quality-assured contraception is only expected to grow in low- and middle-income countries, driving the need for increased contraceptive procurement funding over time and for continued efforts to make family planning services more affordable and accessible.
