West Asia’s ongoing disruptions are sharply increasing logistics costs for poultry exporters, particularly those in India supplying Gulf markets. Exporters face unstable shipping routes, higher freight rates, and growing reliance on costly air cargo to maintain product quality.
Fragile Export Networks
Disruptions across West Asia have exposed the vulnerability of India’s poultry export chain. Exporters supplying Gulf countries are struggling with delivery uncertainty, reduced visibility, and rising logistics costs. Poultry, being highly perishable, depends on predictable transit times. Even short delays erode product quality and force exporters to absorb higher handling costs or reroute shipments through less efficient corridors1.
Rising Freight Costs and Cold Chain Pressures
Industry participants report variable freight rates, extended dwell times, and rerouting challenges. For chilled and frozen poultry, dependency on cold chain infrastructure amplifies the impact. Additional handling increases costs and risks of quality degradation. Smaller exporters are most exposed, lacking the financial capacity to absorb volatility or quickly access alternative markets. Larger integrated players fare better but still face margin pressures as logistics costs rise.
