Fastmarkets' Middle East conflict coverage

Read the latest coverage from Fastmarkets of the war, and its implications for trade and logistics

How is this conflict impacting commodity markets across the globe?

Conflict involving Iran and other parties across the Middle East continues to create uncertainty for global commodity trade and logistics, with freight markets closely monitoring developments affecting key transport routes.

Shipping through strategically important waterways in the region remains subject to heightened risk, prompting some operators to reroute vessels, pause transits or factor in additional security and insurance costs. These adjustments are contributing to longer transit times, tighter vessel availability and upward price pressure for commodities moving into and out of the region.

Conditions remain fluid, and logistics disruption – rather than outright supply loss – is currently the primary channel through which the conflict is affecting physical markets. The latest coverage from Fastmarkets of the war, and its implications for trade and logistics, is set out in the stories listed below.

Read the latest insights

We explain the severe Asia energy shock impact on markets. Learn why Asian paper and board energy costs are climbing rapidly and how you can protect your business today.

The global market for fibers used in nonwovens faced strong pressure in March, with raw material costs for polyester, polypropylene, and viscose fibers increasing by 4-11% in the US and Europe.

Aluminium markets in the US and Mexico are facing an unprecedented mix of geopolitical disruption, trade policy shifts and tightening supply conditions.

The 2026 pulp market faces rising costs, tightening supply, and shifting demand. Discover expert insights and strategies to navigate these challenges and seize opportunities in a volatile global landscape.

Steel markets in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are facing a growing supply crisis for steel and raw materials after the month-long regional conflict paralyzed shipping.

The Nordic sawn timber industry faces a crisis. A combination of factors, including rising log costs following the halt of Russian imports, sluggish demand for end-products, and tightening EU environmental regulations, is severely squeezing profit margins.

Flag, Person, Architecture

To get more of the latest market news and analysis from our experts

Interested in our other guides?

Our price reporters and editorial team provide regular market intelligence and insights into the biggest issues facing the commodity markets.

Listen to the latest episode of our critical minerals podcast
Purple, Texture, Lighting

The definitive podcast for the critical minerals and battery raw materials markets. From uncovering market secrets to predicting future trends using Fastmarkets forecasting data, we’ve got you covered.


Fastmarkets combines the commodity intelligence of these familiar names:

Metal Bulletin • American Metal Market • Scrap Price Bulletin • Industrial Minerals • RISI • FOEX • The Jacobsen • Agricensus • Palm Oil Analytics • Random Lengths • Hardwood Market Report
• FastMarkets and more

Talk to us

Whether you’re interested in learning how to become a customer from our sales teams or looking to get in touch with one of our reporters, we’re here for you.

Speak to our team

Why use a price reporting agency?

Navigate uncertainty and make business decisions with confidence using our price data, forecasts and critical intelligence.

Learn more