China’s supply chains are under growing strain as the Iran conflict disrupts global energy, chemical, and industrial gas flows. Rising oil, gas, petrochemical, chemical, and helium costs are driving up production expenses across key industries, from manufacturing to consumer goods, while shortages of materials like plastics and helium are tightening supply, reports the Financial Times.
The disruption is exposing weaknesses in China’s energy and materials security strategy, with particular pressure on chemical inputs and helium used in high-tech and industrial applications. This has prompted policy warnings in Beijing and renewed efforts to boost self-sufficiency through diversification and accelerated investment in domestic energy and alternative supply sources.
