West Asia Conflict Forces Indian Exporters to Use Longer, Costlier Shipping Routes

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, forcing Indian garment and textile exporters to reroute shipments to Europe and the US via the longer Cape of Good Hope route. This diversion increases transit times by 20-25 days and raises freight and operational costs, impacting timely deliveries amid tight seasonal schedules. While the government is monitoring the situation, exporters warn of broader trade disruptions if tensions persist.