Shippers told to prep contingency plans

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) has observed a slowdown in orders for rice, chicken, rubber, food and electrical appliances due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the conflict in the Middle East.

- PHUSADEE ARUNMAS

Kongrit Chantrik, executive director of the TNSC, said the Israel-Iran conflict remains unpredictable, especially concerning a reported ceasefire.

The council initially predicted if the Strait of Hormuz was closed, major ports in the Persian Gulf such as Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates, Doha in Qatar, and Dammam in Saudi Arabia could also face closure. This would significantly disrupt the network of feeder services, impacting Thai exports to all the Gulf states.

This uncertainty has slowed orders for rice, chicken, rubber, food and electrical appliances, as traders await greater clarity on the situation.