Agri Cargo Bound for West Asia Returning to India

13-Mar-2026 04:58 PM

Mumbai: Ships carrying Indian agricultural products to West Asia are returning to Indian ports before reaching their destinations due to the risks in sea routes caused by the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict. Because of the conflict, the maritime route has become highly risky.

As a result, thousands of containers loaded with rice, fruits, and vegetables are either stranded mid-route or stuck at Indian ports.

Most of the vessels heading to West Asian countries have turned back midway and returned to Indian ports such as Mundra Port, Gandhidham Port, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.

Only a few consignments destined for Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been diverted to alternative ports such as Khor Fakkan Port and Port of Salalah, although their original destination was Jebel Ali Port.

Cargo shipments of fruits and grains are returning to India because the onward sea route is currently considered unsafe for vessels.