Asean Business logo
SPONSORED BYUOB logo
SUBSCRIBERS

S-E Asian businesses in the Gulf take safety measures as they hunker down for prolonged disruption

Some SMEs and exporters could face operational and cost pressures as US-Iran conflict spills over

Evan See
Published Tue, Mar 3, 2026 · 11:42 AM
    • Smoke rising after an explosion due to drone debris in the industrial zone in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, on Mar 3. Security and safety precautions are the topmost priority for South-east Asian companies with teams in the region.
    • Smoke rising after an explosion due to drone debris in the industrial zone in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, on Mar 3. Security and safety precautions are the topmost priority for South-east Asian companies with teams in the region. PHOTO: BLOOMBERG

    [SINGAPORE] South-east Asian companies with Gulf exposure are in contingency mode as the US-Iran conflict ripples through the region, causing margin pressures as freight and energy costs spike.

    Exporters to the Middle East, companies in the oil and gas (O&G) chain, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with ventures in Gulf countries, as well as those with presence in international business hubs such as Dubai are all watching developments with furrowed brows.

    In the meantime, security and safety precautions are the topmost priority for companies with teams in the region.

    Decoding Asia newsletter: your guide to navigating Asia in a new global order. Sign up here to get Decoding Asia newsletter. Delivered to your inbox. Free.

    Copyright SPH Media. All rights reserved.