Countries across Asia are introducing emergency measures to curb fuel consumption as escalating conflict involving Iran disrupts oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

The waterway, which links the Persian Gulf to global markets, normally carries a large share of the world’s seaborne oil and natural gas.

Asian economies depend heavily on these flows, receiving the majority of crude oil shipped through the strait.

The sharp reduction in tanker traffic and rising geopolitical tensions have therefore triggered widespread concern about energy security across the region.

Governments from Southeast Asia to East Asia have begun implementing measures aimed at stabilizing supplies and reducing demand.

Thailand has expanded subsidies from its oil fuel fund to limit price increases for consumers while urging the public to avoid panic buying.

Officials say the policy is designed to cushion households and businesses from the immediate impact of soaring global energy prices.

Elsewhere, several governments have introduced conservation efforts intended to stretch existing fuel stocks.

In parts of Southeast Asia, authorities have encouraged remote work arrangements and other energy-saving practices to reduce transport and electricity demand during the crisis.

More severe measures have been adopted in some economies facing acute supply pressure.

Bangladesh has implemented fuel rationing and tightened control at depots and filling stations to prevent hoarding.

Myanmar has introduced restrictions on vehicle usage, allowing cars with certain license plate numbers to travel only on designated days.

Large economies such as China, India and Japan are considered better positioned to weather short-term disruptions due to strategic petroleum reserves and diversified energy supply networks.

Nevertheless, China has tightened controls on refined fuel exports and is seeking to secure shipping routes for crude imports as authorities prepare for potential prolonged instability.

Energy analysts say the crisis highlights Asia’s deep dependence on oil and gas shipments from the Middle East.

Around a fifth of global oil trade and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and any disruption quickly reverberates through regional economies.

The ongoing conflict has already pushed energy prices higher and forced governments to consider contingency plans, including drawing on strategic reserves and expanding fuel conservation policies.

International organizations have also moved to release emergency oil stockpiles in an attempt to stabilize global markets.

Economists warn that if shipping disruptions persist, the effects could extend beyond energy markets to broader economic activity across Asia, raising transportation costs, pressuring inflation and complicating economic recovery across several developing economies.