How the Conflict in the Middle East Affects Global Fruit Prices
The recent escalation of the situation in the Middle East has led to significant disruptions in global fruit supplies. The three largest shipping companies in the world — MSC, Maersk, and Hapag-Lloyd — have simultaneously halted operations in the region, which has dealt a serious blow to exporters from South Africa and Asia, who traditionally used routes through the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.
This is reported by AgroReview
Shipping Halt and Port Blockades
The announcement of the suspension of new cargo acceptance from South African suppliers has effectively blocked the transportation of fruits to the ports of Jebel Ali and other ports in the Persian Gulf. Alternative routes through the Red Sea are also unavailable, complicating the situation for exporters. As noted by Stefano Iorini, a representative of Global Star Group, suppliers are currently facing serious transportation difficulties:
“This is a big, big problem. Shipping lines have announced that they cannot accept new orders from South African suppliers. Vessels will not be able to reach Jebel Ali or the ports of the Persian Gulf, and the Red Sea from the south is already closed.”
Currently, export apples, pears, grapes, and citrus fruits from South Africa, as well as grapes and bananas from India, remain blocked. Azhar Tambuwala, director of the Indian company Sahyadri Farms, confirmed that nearly all major shipping companies have halted services to key ports in the region. Only one line remains operational with Dubai and Oman, but it does not guarantee timely delivery. Many containers have already been returned from the ports back to refrigerated warehouses, and exporters are trying to redirect their products to the domestic market, although significant batches of fruits are still waiting for shipment.
Aviation Restrictions and the Risk of Price Increases
The crisis has also affected air transport. As noted by Kaushal Khakkar, CEO of Kaybee Exports, India was exporting hundreds of tons of fresh fruits and vegetables daily to Middle Eastern countries via air transport. However, the closure of airspace has complicated this route as well, impacting supplies to Europe and the United Kingdom. Some flights are still operating, but on detours and longer routes. This means increased logistics costs and an inevitable rise in fruit prices for the end consumer.
The situation is exacerbated by the short shelf life of fresh products. If the Strait of Hormuz is not opened soon, logistical difficulties could escalate into a real food crisis. Experts emphasize that ordinary consumers will be the first to feel the price increases.
The Middle East is one of the key markets for Indian bananas — in 2025, exports of this product from India increased by 50% and exceeded 1.1 million tons. However, this market is currently effectively blocked, and fresh products are waiting for transportation issues to be resolved in warehouses.