Garment shipments from South Asia destined for major global fashion brands are facing significant delays after the ongoing Middle East conflict forced major airlines to suspend flights across the region.
Manufacturers in Bangladesh and India say consignments bound for European markets are currently stranded at airports due to widespread flight cancellations by leading Gulf carriers such as Emirates and Qatar Airways. The airlines halted several operations as large sections of Middle Eastern airspace remain closed amid escalating regional tensions.
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South Asia is one of the world’s largest clothing manufacturing hubs, supplying apparel to major fast-fashion retailers. Brands rely heavily on factories in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan to deliver a constant flow of clothing products including T-shirts, dresses and jeans.
Shovon Islam, managing director of Bangladesh-based manufacturer Sparrow Group, said several consignments intended for European buyers are stuck at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. The shipments were scheduled to reach the United Kingdom via Dubai, but the temporary shutdown of Dubai International Airport has disrupted the route.
Islam said the company is trying to arrange alternative transportation, but options are limited and significantly more expensive.
Global fashion giant Inditex, owner of the Zara brand, sources garments from hundreds of suppliers across South Asia. According to its earlier disclosures, the company has more than 150 suppliers in Bangladesh, 122 in India and dozens more in Pakistan.
The disruption has also triggered a sharp rise in freight costs. Alexander Nathani, managing partner of Mumbai-based leather manufacturer Kira Leder, said air cargo rates for shipments from Mumbai to Europe have doubled due to limited flight availability.
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Industry officials warn the situation could worsen if maritime routes are affected. Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association, said prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could also increase sea freight costs.
Exporters fear that continued disruptions could create a major supply chain crisis for the global fashion industry.