World Business Report Oil tensions and global trade risks
Mar 16, 2026
Seijiro Tekishita, a management professor from the University of Shizuoka, explains why Japan’s vending machines are disappearing. Sarah Bazubandi, a Middle East risk specialist, discusses naval strategies, Iranian tactics and regional security. Simak Shojai, an economist and business dean, analyzes Gulf energy routes and the economic fallout of supply disruptions. Multiple short, engaging takes on trade risks and shifting social patterns.
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Strait Of Hormuz Is A Global Supply Lifeline
- Global trade through the Strait of Hormuz is far broader than oil and gas, encompassing 90% of Gulf states' imports.
- Simak Shojai lists food, machinery, vehicles, aircraft parts, fertilizers and industrial inputs all routed via the strait, amplifying economic contagion.
Short Disruptions Can Escalate Into Global Growth Risks
- Even limited disruptions can rapidly translate into global economic pain if prolonged beyond weeks.
- Simak Shojai warns a couple more weeks, and certainly beyond a month, would make the risk to growth obvious to all players.
Form Coalitions To Reassure Maritime Trade
- Build multinational naval escorts to reassure shipping if individual states cannot guarantee safety.
- The White House is seeking an international coalition to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz to reduce transit fear, Sarah Bazubandi notes the idea's feasibility depends on partners.