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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.
Recent Middle Eastern tensions and a sharp drop in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could present a major opportunity for Russian pulp producers.
Steel energy tube and pipe prices will continue rising amid the US war with Iran and a lack of imported material, Cody Schlueter, president and owner of Port Pipe and Tube, told Fastmarkets in an exclusive interview on May 4.
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.
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