The escalating conflict in the Middle East has triggered a severe energy crisis across several countries, following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil trade. The disruption has significantly affected fuel supply chains, leading to shortages in India and multiple Asian nations. Long queues at fuel stations and rising prices are raising concerns of a broader economic slowdown, with the situation drawing parallels to pandemic-era disruptions.
In response to the crisis, several countries have begun implementing emergency measures. The Philippines has declared a national energy emergency, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. setting up a special committee to oversee the supply of fuel and essential commodities. The government is also prioritizing coal-based power generation to maintain electricity supply during the ongoing shortage.
महाराष्ट्र के जालना में पेट्रोल-डीजल को लेकर हालात इन दिनों काफी तनावपूर्ण बने हुए हैं। कई पेट्रोल पंपों पर स्टॉक खत्म होने के कारण उन्हें अस्थायी रूप से बंद करना पड़ा, जिससे लोगों की परेशानी बढ़ गई है। जैसे ही चौधरी नगर इलाके के एक पेट्रोल पंप पर ईंधन उपलब्ध होने की खबर फैली,… pic.twitter.com/HUUUBek52A
— AajTak (@aajtak) March 26, 2026
South Korea has introduced strict energy conservation measures, treating fuel savings as a social responsibility. The country has rolled out a 12-point guideline, including restrictions on nighttime EV charging and promoting bicycle usage for short-distance travel. These steps are aimed at reducing overall energy consumption and managing limited fuel availability.
🚨🇵🇭 BREAKING: Due to gas shortages, people are now walking to work in the Philippines. pic.twitter.com/mQkwRkRQwP
— Jvnior (@Jvnior) March 25, 2026
Sri Lanka and Pakistan have adopted aggressive demand-control strategies by implementing a four-day work week to cut fuel consumption. Sri Lanka has declared Wednesdays as a weekly holiday to reduce usage, while Pakistan has temporarily closed schools and allowed a significant portion of its workforce to operate from home to ease energy demand.
Thailand has directed government offices to maintain air conditioning temperatures at 27°C and encouraged remote working wherever possible. The aviation sector is also feeling the impact, with Vietnam Airlines suspending services on several domestic routes due to jet fuel shortages and rising costs. Experts warn that with a large share of Asia’s oil imports dependent on the Strait of Hormuz, prolonged disruptions could force countries to impose even stricter measures, further affecting economic activity.