Several automakers in India have begun postponing vehicle shipments to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) as rising geopolitical tensions disrupt shipping routes and push freight costs higher, according to a recent report by Bloomberg. As a result, several companies have opted to temporarily delay shipments bound for the region rather than absorb the additional expenses. Exports to certain African markets have also been affected because of container shortages and challenges in berthing ships at ports. According to a recent report by CRISIL, nearly half of the tyre industry’s operating costs are tied to crude oil prices. While manufacturers can offset some of the increase by raising product prices, the pass-through is not always immediate.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 05, 2026 14:49 UTC