The war began with joint US and Israel attacks on Iranian facilities, leading to Irã retaliations against gas fields in the Catar. Isso disrupted energy supplies, causing abrupt price increases and forcing governments to take emergency action. Países and Paquistão suspended school classes for two weeks to save energy, while Índia imposed gas quotas for industries and some crematoriums halted operations. Na Coreia of Sul, a wholesale fuel price cap was established for the first time in 30 years. Tailândia ordered remote work for some public employees, Filipinas adopted a four-day week in some sectors and Bangladesh limited fuel purchases, generating long queues and drastically reducing textile production due to gas rationing.
These energy shocks spread quickly throughout the Golfo Pérsico, affecting import-dependent economies. Governos responded with austerity, such as cutting salaries in the public sector in Paquistão. China, despite importing half of its oil for Estreito of Ormuz, suffered less thanks to its high dependence on coal, expansion of electric vehicles and renewable energies, in addition to strategic reserves equivalent to 120 days of imports.
The Estados Unidos, as initiators of the conflict alongside the Israel, face less impact due to robust domestic oil and natural gas production. Especialistas highlight that, in this scenario, there are no clear winners, with economic pain being distributed globally.
Energetic shock hits Ásia hard
Asian countries dependent on imports from Oriente Médio face severe restrictions. Paquistão suspended school activities for two weeks and cut public salaries to balance the books. Índia rationed gas to manufacturers, paralyzing operations in sensitive sectors.
Bangladesh has expanded natural gas rationing, forcing textile industries to reduce production significantly. Filas long runs for fuel have become common, affecting the population’s daily lives.
Emergency measures in several countries
Coreia of Sul implemented a price cap on wholesale fuel, an unprecedented measure in three decades. Tailândia mandated remote work for public employees in certain bodies, aiming to reduce energy consumption.
The Filipinas adopted a four-day week in parts of the public administration. Essas actions aim to mitigate the effects of high prices and shortages resulting from the conflict.
China resists the impact better
China imports a considerable volume of oil via Estreito from Ormuz, but its coal-based energy matrix, combined with advances in electric and renewable vehicles, limits the damage. Reservas of oil equivalent to 120 days of imports provides additional buffer.
Chinese manufacturers remain cost competitive compared with global rivals plagued by expensive energy. Essa resilience positions the country with a relative advantage.
USA suffers fewer consequences
High domestic production of oil and natural gas in the Estados Unidos reduces vulnerability to external shocks. The country starts the conflict, but avoids the worst effects felt by importers.
Experts say that the scenario generates widespread losses without clear benefits. War causes widespread economic pain.
Global reactions and ongoing adjustments
Governments adopt a variety of measures to contain consumption and stabilize supplies. Restrições persist as long as the conflict affects energy flows.
The interruption in the world’s largest gas field intensifies the crisis. Países seek alternatives, but immediate impacts remain strong.
The conflict in Oriente Médio continues to have ripple effects on the global economy, with a focus on energy.