"It's just impossible to sell": the war in Iran is destroying the food market

The war in Iran has led not only to an energy crisis that is already affecting the whole of Asia, Reuters reports. Given that up to 50% of world oil production goes to plastic production, the war threatens to disrupt the production of a wide range of goods and their packaging — from cosmetics to food.

The South Korean company Samyang Foods, which sells Buldak noodles, warned of a possible shortage of packaging. Container manufacturer Yonwoo, which works with L'Oreal and other cosmetic brands, is urgently purchasing materials.

"It's not about the price — if supplies are not available, it's simply impossible to sell products without containers," the company representative said.

In Japan, the Takashimaya department store chain warned of a possible increase in prices for clothing and household appliances. Chip manufacturer Yamayoshi Seika has suspended the release of popular Wasabeef due to a shortage of ingredients.

Dongguan-based toy manufacturer Liu Chaonan said that the situation in Iran greatly affects their industry. Perhaps, he said, "we will have to adjust prices."

Bottled water has risen in price in India due to the rising cost of plastic bottles and lids. Global breweries have warned of price hikes and supply disruptions due to gas shortages.

South Korean supermarkets fix the shortage of garbage bags and impose restrictions on their purchase. The South Korean polyethylene film production plant has reduced production to 20-30% of capacity due to a shortage of raw materials.