West Asia Crisis: Freight Costs Surge 60-80%, Exports Plunge 50% From Kolkata Port

The West Asia crisis has caused freight costs for Europe-bound cargo from Kolkata to surge 60-80 per cent due to rerouting and war surcharges, while exports have plummeted by up to 50 per cent. Hundreds of containers are stranded at Kolkata port amid last-minute cancellations and severe container shortages. Engineering goods and perishables face major disruptions despite government relief schemes.