A deepening fuel crisis linked to Middle East tensions is forcing hundreds of textile units in India to scale back operations, a disruption that could create an export opportunity for neighboring Pakistan.
Nearly 450 textile processing units in Surat and nearby industrial zones have begun shutting down on alternate days due to shortages of coal, lignite and liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG. The affected areas include major clusters such as Pandesara, Sachin, Hojiwala, Palsana and Kadodara, key centers in India’s textile supply chain.
India imports around 60% of its LPG, with about 90% of those supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route now under strain due to ongoing regional conflict. The shortage has disrupted operations across multiple sectors, including textiles, food processing, pharmaceuticals and ceramics, all of which rely on LPG for heating and industrial processes.
The slowdown has also affected daily life, with reports of workers in Surat returning home as factories halt production and authorities prioritize domestic gas supply.
Industry officials say the disruption could divert some international textile orders to Pakistan, which competes with India in several export markets.
However, Zubair Motiwala, chairman of the Businessmen Group, said any potential gains would depend on immediate government support.
“Pakistan will benefit only if the government provides subsidies,” Motiwala said. “Shipping lines are charging emergency and fuel surcharges, and the recent increase in petroleum prices is raising the cost of doing business.”
He added that the broader situation remains a concern for the region.
“Overall, this is not good at all for the region,” he said. “If this continues, it will also hurt Pakistan’s economy.”
Analysts say that while short-term supply disruptions in India may create openings, prolonged instability in energy markets could offset gains for exporters across South Asia.
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