Middle East supply chain disruption: Update for BHTA members

This update has been produced following requests from members for practical information about how current geopolitical tensions affecting the Middle East may impact fuel costs, logistics, and supply chains. The BHTA recently hosted a member discussion session on this topic, and the insights shared have informed this update.

At present, there are no immediate signs of major supply route disruption affecting member businesses. However, members are beginning to see early pressures, particularly around rising fuel prices, increased transport costs, and wider supply chain uncertainty.

Fuel prices have increased in recent weeks, with diesel costs in particular rising more sharply. This is already affecting delivery fleets, service engineers, installers, and courier services. Even where fuel remains available, higher costs are feeding through into transport, logistics, and supplier pricing.

For most members, the immediate risk is not a nationwide fuel shortage, but cost pressure and potential short-term local disruption. However, if the situation escalates or continues for a prolonged period, there may be wider implications for shipping, freight, and availability of certain materials.

At this stage, members have not reported significant disruption to international shipping routes. However, there is ongoing uncertainty around key global routes, particularly through the Gulf region. Prolonged disruption could lead to increased freight costs, longer lead times, and additional pressure on supply chains.

Some members have already reported price increases in specific product categories. For example, petroleum-based products such as vinyl gloves have seen immediate cost increases and spot pricing. There have also been concerns raised about potential increases in insurance costs linked to shipping and logistics risk. Where members rely on imported goods, specialist deliveries, or time-sensitive shipments, it may be worth speaking to brokers, insurers, or logistics partners to understand whether premiums, exclusions, or lead times could change.

The BHTA will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as more information becomes available. In addition, the BHTA will produce dedicated fuel resilience and continuity planning guidance for members, which will be made available as a members-only resource to support businesses in managing ongoing disruption.

Sharing member feedback

Members are encouraged to share any emerging issues related to fuel costs, supply chains, or product availability. This feedback helps the BHTA understand the scale of potential impacts and raise them with relevant organisations and stakeholders.

If you have concerns or examples to share, please contact David Stockdale, BHTA Chief Executive, at david.stockdale@bhta.com. Information can be aggregated anonymously and used in discussions with the wider network, including organisations such as NHS Supply Chain where relevant.

The BHTA will continue to keep members informed as the situation develops.