Geopolitical tensions reshape supply chains globally.

Geopolitical tensions reshape supply chains globally. Japanese snack maker Calbee is switching 14 of its popular products to black and white packaging starting May 25th due to disrupted ink supplies caused by the Iran conflict. The Strait of Hormuz closure has severely impacted naphtha availability, a key ingredient in inks and plastics. Naphtha prices in Asia have nearly doubled since the conflict began on February 28th. Before the war, Japan imported approximately 40% of its naphtha from the Middle East. This packaging change demonstrates how geopolitical events directly impact consumer goods and everyday business operations. Other major companies face similar pressures, with costs rising across industries from automotive to fashion to food production across Asia.