Global Supply Chain

Global Waterways and Transit Fees: A Comparative Overview

Following the Strait of Hormuz reopening, Iran and Oman proposed a permanent fee system for ships. This highlights global supply chain reliance on key waterways, where international law generally grants free transit passage, though specific service fees are permissible. Major straits like Hormuz, Bosphorus, Malacca, and canals like Suez and Panama have varying fee structures, from free passage to significant tolls.

Global Supply Chains Vulnerable to Maritime Chokepoint Disruptions

The US-Iran war highlighted the fragility of global supply chains, dependent on maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions led to increased costs and logistical problems, necessitating "war-room planning" for future crises.

NSA Ajit Doval expresses 'cautious optimism' over US-Iran peace deal

India's NSA Ajit Doval welcomed the US-Iran MoU, expressing 'cautious optimism' for regional stability, energy security, and eased supply chains. He highlighted improved access through the Strait of Hormuz and the need for multilateral cooperation amid global uncertainties.

China a Defender of Global Supply Chains, Not Disruptor, Says Vice-Premier Ding

China's Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang stated that China is a defender of global supply chains, not a disruptor, highlighting its role in stabilizing energy and fertilizer markets during the Strait of Hormuz crisis. He refuted claims of overcapacity and protectionism, attributing China's industrial strength to reform, a broad industrial base, and a large market.

G7 Leaders Agree to Strengthen Cooperation on Critical Minerals, Reduce China Dependence

G7 leaders agreed to boost cooperation on critical minerals, aiming to reduce dependence on China. Plans include coordinated stockpiling, increased recycling, and a new platform with IEA support to secure supplies for defense, AI, EVs, and renewables.

China's Evolving Stance: From 'Saying No' to Strategic Leverage

China's stance towards the West has evolved from a nascent rejection in 1996 to possessing significant strategic leverage, evident in its forceful countermeasures against Western claims and sanctions, and a shift in Western leaders visiting Beijing.

India Poised to Gain from Global Supply Chain Shifts, Needs Strategic Neutrality

India can benefit from global supply chain realignments by maintaining strategic neutrality, focusing on domestic production, and building robust economic buffers. The nation must implement targeted industrial policies to capture opportunities in sectors like AI, data centers, defense, and energy security, leveraging international cooperation to navigate multipolar transitions.

Motor Oil Prices Soar Amid Global Supply Chain Disruptions

The price of base oil for synthetic motor oil has tripled due to the war in Iran and disruptions in the Middle East. Supply chain issues, including damage to a key Qatari plant and prioritization of diesel fuel, are leading to higher prices and potential shortages for consumers.

China Dominates Global Port Efficiency Rankings in 2025

China's ports topped the 2025 Container Port Performance Index, with 7 in the global top 10, amid critical roles in managing supply chain disruptions post-Red Sea crisis and US-Israel war on Iran.

Taiwan's President Lai: Maintaining Status Quo Crucial for Global Supply Chains

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te stated that maintaining the political status quo is vital for global supply chains, especially for AI development. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang called Taiwan the 'epicenter of the ecosystem' for chip manufacturing.

Taiwan President Stresses Strait Peace for Global Supply Chain Stability at Computex

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait for global supply chain resilience at the opening of Computex 2026. He highlighted Taiwan's crucial role in AI supply chains, particularly due to TSMC, and noted the island's strong economic growth and stock market performance.

India's Great Nicobar Island Project Amid Hormuz Blockade

India's Great Nicobar Island project gains strategic attention amid the Hormuz blockade, potentially disrupting Chinese supply chains and alleviating the 'Malacca dilemma'.

PM Modi warns of global poverty risk amid crises, highlights India-Netherlands ties

PM Modi warned global crises could reverse development and increase poverty. He highlighted India-Netherlands cooperation on supply chains and praised the Indian diaspora in The Hague for preserving culture while contributing to Dutch society.

No shortage of petro products, avoid panic but follow PM's save-fuel advice: Rajnath at iGoM meet

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured citizens that India is prepared for global supply chain disruptions, with ample petroleum products and robust foreign exchange reserves. He urged fuel conservation to ease the nation's financial burden amid high international crude prices. The government is implementing measures for fuel efficiency and responsible consumption.

'Whenever India faced war or ...': PM Modi calls for public responsibility amid Middle East crisis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged collective national efforts to reduce import dependence and strengthen India's global supply chain position. Amidst global uncertainty and Middle East conflict concerns, he appealed to citizens to minimize foreign currency spending and support domestic manufacturing. Modi drew parallels to past national crises, emphasizing historical citizen unity in response to government appeals.

'Your utility is done': Oppn warns of petrol, diesel price hike after PM Modi's appeal to cut fuel use amid West Asia crisis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to reduce fuel and edible oil consumption, citing the West Asia crisis and global supply chain disruptions. Opposition parties criticized the appeal, calling it an admission of failure and a shift of responsibility onto the public after elections. The BJP defended the PM's call as responsible leadership and national interest.

From dependence on imports to self-reliance - India’s defence transformation accelerates

India is significantly boosting defence spending and prioritizing domestic production, aiming for self-reliance and export growth. New policies like 'Make in India' and DAP 2020 are reshaping procurement, encouraging local manufacturing and foreign collaboration. Despite global supply chain challenges, indigenous production and exports are rising, signaling a strategic shift towards greater defence capability and autonomy.

Big setback for Trump: US court rules 10% global tariffs unlawful

A US federal trade court ruled against President Trump's 10% global tariffs, deeming them invalid and unauthorized by law. The court found the administration's justification under a 1974 trade law insufficient, a setback for a key trade policy. This decision offers stability to businesses reliant on global supply chains.

China Claims Global Dominance in Essential Mineral Reserves

China has announced it holds the world's largest reserves of 14 essential minerals and plans to increase exploration through 2030. The move highlights Beijing's focus on resource security amid rising geopolitical tensions and export controls on critical materials.

Chaos, confusion & grey zones: The flimsy rules controlling global supply chains