India’s polyester fibre prices have surged by Rs 12 per kilogram as escalating tensions in West Asia disrupt key shipping routes, industry sources said on Thursday. The ongoing conflict has forced shipping companies to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global maritime trade, prompting longer rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope and sharply increasing freight costs.
The supply chain disruption has directly impacted raw material availability for textile manufacturers, raising production costs for synthetic yarn and fabrics. Traders in Coimbatore and Ludhiana reported higher prices across domestic markets, with mills warning that the spike could squeeze profit margins if additional costs are not passed on to buyers.
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“Freight delays and higher insurance premiums due to the geopolitical risk are creating significant pressure on textile exports,” said Ramesh Kumar, a senior analyst at Textile Research Associates. “If the situation persists, delivery schedules will be affected, and the industry could see a slowdown in orders from international buyers.”
The West Asia conflict has broader implications beyond polyester. Rising oil prices, air freight bottlenecks, and disrupted supply chains are affecting multiple sectors, including plastics, packaging, and consumer goods. Exporters across South Asia are facing logistical challenges as delayed shipments accumulate at ports, increasing storage and transport costs.
Industry stakeholders are monitoring the situation closely, anticipating potential market adjustments in the coming weeks. Analysts say that while temporary price hikes are expected, prolonged instability could significantly reshape global trade flows for petrochemical-based products, including polyester fibre.
