The ongoing war involving Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are causing severe disruptions to global fuel supplies, threatening travel across Asia-Pacific (APAC) and creating ripple effects worldwide. In response, governments across Asia are taking action. Japan has relaxed coal regulations, Vietnam has suspended a green tax to reduce fuel costs, and India has lowered excise duties on fossil fuels, among other measures.
Impact on travellers and the travel industry
Fuel shortages are already forcing airlines – including low-cost carriers and major international operators – to cancel hundreds of flights. Ferry services, public and private transport are also being affected, while fuel purchase limits are being introduced in several locations.
“For travellers, this could mean sudden changes to itineraries, limited mobility, or, in the worst case, being stranded at your destination,” said Adam Schrader, Director of Operations at Riskline. “For travel companies, the risk of cancellations, rescheduling costs, and customer dissatisfaction is climbing daily.”
Laura Welsh, Head of Global Partnerships and Customer Success at Riskline, commented:
“Corporate clients and travel management companies are facing a highly challenging landscape. Access to real-time, reliable travel intelligence is critical to adjust itineraries, ensure staff safety, and minimise operational disruption.”
Travel Advisories: What Riskline is seeing
Between 28 February and 13 March, Riskline published 1,924 real-time alerts on the Iran conflict, surpassing levels seen during the 2020 pandemic. Most recently, the company issued dedicated travel advisories for multiple APAC countries to support travellers and businesses navigating ongoing disruptions.
Key highlights include:
- High-risk destinations: Philippines and Myanmar, where national emergencies and flight suspensions have been declared.
- Medium-risk destinations: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, experiencing major fuel price hikes and partial transport disruptions.
- Moderate-risk destinations: Australia, India, Laos, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Thailand, and others, facing limited fuel availability, possible flight disruptions, and reduced public transport services.
Learn how we assess destinations using our methodology.
Safety and Travel Advice
Riskline’s advisories recommend:
- Maintain a full tank of fuel for vehicles and equipment where possible.
- Use public transport, walk, or cycle for shorter journeys, particularly in countries experiencing severe fuel shortages.
- Plan for potential extended stays in affected destinations due to possible flight or transport disruptions.
- Check itineraries in advance with airlines or travel providers for updates on cancellations, rebookings, or refunds.
- Exercise caution at fuel stations and in crowded areas, where tensions or unrest may arise.
“Travellers should think ahead and prepare for disruptions. They should not assume transport and fuel will always be available,” said Adam Schrader. “Even short trips can be impacted, so proactive planning is critical for safety and continuity.”
Authorities in the Philippines have declared a state of energy emergency, while Myanmar is limiting fuel purchases and suspending domestic flights. Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Cambodia have also imposed fuel rationing measures.