The disruptions come at a critical time, with publishers ordering print runs in Asia and locking in shipping arrangements.

Every day the conflict continues threatens to widen the global impacts to food supply chains, affecting everything from crop yields to grocery store prices. 

Analysts say Tehran is trying to impose a traffic control system through the strait, permitting safe passage for friendly vessels while leaving others fearful of attack.

Producers would have lost money in 2025, if it wasn’t for federal subsidies, including the $12 billion in bridge loans for farmers hurt by Donald Trump’s tariffs.

The escalating war has effectively dashed hopes for a full Red Sea reopening this year, though forecasting remains difficult.

With the Strait of Hormuz all but closed, Saudi Arabia has been rerouting oil through a 1,200 kilometer pipeline to the western port of Yanbu.

Some carriers are attempting to introduce “war surcharges” on lanes with no direct exposure.

Average U.S. diesel prices sat at $5.04 per gallon as of March 17, marking a 34% increase from the first day of strikes by the U.S. and Israel against Iran.

While the rates are high, it’s also a sign that cover remains available for the handful of vessels looking to cross the vital waterway.

"We want the world to be well supplied," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with CNBC.