Israel-Iran conflict hits Punjab’s export economy

The war between Israel and Iran has severely disrupted imports and exports from Punjab, a key agricultural and industrial region in northern India. Although Iran’s Bandar Abbas port remains open, delays across most shipments have caused uncertainty for traders.

Earlier, India’s closure of its only land trade route with Afghanistan via Attari worsened the supply situation, especially for dry fruits. Now, with Iranian supplies affected too, wholesale prices of pistachios, almonds, raisins, and other fruits have increased and are expected to rise in retail markets.

Rajdeep Singh Uppal from the Confederation of International Chamber of Commerce said this is the second supply disruption in two months and called for the use of Chabahar port to ease pressure. He warned that a prolonged war could force traders to use longer, costlier routes.

Fruit exporters report that trade with Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia has paused, though losses are currently limited due to the off-season. If the conflict continues, Punjab’s cross-border trade is likely to face rising costs, tighter margins, and supply shortages across sectors.

source: tribuneindia.com

photo: kashmirconvener.com