A second New World screwworm case has been confirmed in a Texas calf, sharpening concern among ranchers and animal-health officials over the first domestic livestock detections of the deadly parasite in about six decades. The US Department of Agriculture identified the latest infection in a one-month-old calf in Zavala County, about 5.6 miles from the first confirmed case near La Pryor, south Texas. The first calf, about […]
Amazon has unveiled an upgraded version of its Proteus warehouse robot that can take plain-language instructions from workers, marking a major step in the company’s push to automate heavier tasks across its European fulfilment network. The next-generation Proteus was shown at Amazon’s Dartford fulfilment centre east of London as part of a wider investment programme of more than €10 billion, equal to about $11.6 billion, aimed at […]
Bitcoin slipped below $60,000, extending a sharp retreat that has weakened confidence among bulls and underscored a broader shift in speculative capital towards artificial intelligence-linked equities, large technology listings and parts of the gold trade. The world’s largest cryptocurrency touched its weakest level since October 2024 after failing to hold support around $65,000, a level traders had treated as critical following last month’s attempted recovery. The latest […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it had launched missile strikes on “enemy bases in the region” after US forces hit targets near the Strait of Hormuz, pushing Gulf states into a new security alert as sirens sounded in Kuwait and Bahrain. Guard commanders framed the operation as retaliation for US strikes on Iranian coastal positions around Sirik and Qeshm Island, both close to one […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 June 2026 – The 19th (2026) International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Exhibition & Conference (SNEC 2026) was grandly held from June 3 to 5, 2026, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Attracting over 3,000 exhibitors from 95 countries worldwide, the event stands as the largest and most influential professional grand gathering for the photovoltaic and energy storage sectors across Asia and globally.
During the exhibition, Mr. Yiu Wang Lee, Chairman of the Board of Wing Lee Development Construction Holdings Limited (“Wing Lee” or the “Group”, stock code: 9639.HK); Mr. Cai Huihui, General Manager of Wing Kai New Energy Technology Co., Limited (“Wing Kai New Energy”); Mr. Wang Yi, Key Account Manager of QIJI Energy; Mr. Xu Jun, Overseas Energy Storage Commercial Director of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL); and Mr. You Yuxian, ASEAN Regional Energy Storage Sales Director of CATL, jointly visited the exhibition booth of C&D Hi-Tech. The delegation engaged in in-depth discussions with the team led by General Manager Mr. Zhan Shengli, focusing on battery swapping station projects in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. By integrating multi-party resources, the teams successfully finalized and signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement.
Through this signing, the three parties will join forces to address and resolve the industry pain points of overseas markets regarding regulatory compliance, engineering infrastructure, and supply chain coordination. The collaboration represents a deep integration of QIJI Energy’s cutting-edge battery swapping solutions, Wing Kai New Energy’s localized infrastructure and operational capabilities across Hong Kong and Shenzhen, and C&D Hi-Tech’s robust global resource allocation strengths. Moving from single-project development to an ecosystem of mutual win-win, this partnership will significantly enhance the delivery efficiency of green energy across Hong Kong, Macau, and the Southeast Asian region, setting a brand-new benchmark for regional zero-carbon smart transportation.
As a subsidiary of Wing Lee, Wing Kai New Energy has been rooted in Hong Kong since its inception while radiating its presence globally, deeply cultivating sustainable clean energy solutions. Addressing the acute pain points in the Greater Bay Area and Southeast Asian markets, where rapid fluctuations in energy prices have led to surging cost pressures for logistics distribution enterprises, Wing Kai New Energy will focus on urban distribution logistics battery swapping businesses in the future. The company plans to integrate site resources, infrastructure, and operations to fill the gap in regional infrastructure. We firmly believe that this cooperation will effectively bridge the cross-border green energy eco-link, accelerate the construction of a green energy service network, and contribute solidly to the realization of the “dual carbon” goals. Meanwhile, we sincerely invite more partners to join the Zero-Carbon Smart Alliance to jointly advance sustainable development.
Hashtag: #WingLee
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Wing Lee Development Construction Holdings Limited
Deeply rooted in Hong Kong, Wing Lee is an established contractor engaged in civil engineering, electrical and mechanical engineering, and new energy businesses, and has participated in various large-scale landmark projects in Hong Kong. The Group’s civil engineering business specialized in site formation waterworks as well as road and drainage works, while its electrical and mechanical engineering business specializes in power system-related projects and emergency maintenance works. In recent years, the Group has actively expanded into the new energy sector, undertaking solar photovoltaic projects, distributing various electric commercial vehicles and electric construction machinery, and engaging in the construction and subsequent maintenance of charging piles, battery swapping, recycling, and energy storage businesses. In 2025, Wing Lee Construction, together with SANY Group Co., Ltd. and CATL, among other industry giants, founded the “Zero-Carbon Smart Alliance” to develop full-industry-chain solutions for photovoltaics, energy storage, charging and battery swapping, and smart applications in green transportation.
By Dr. Gyan Pathak After a series of political setbacks since Lok Sabha Election 2024, the meet of the INDIA bloc scheduled to be held at the Constitution Club in New Delhi on June 8 is a significant development, especially when one of its allies DMK has announced to skip the meet, and the BJP […]
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 June 2026 – The global demand for AI computing power continues to experience a massive construction boom. At the highly anticipated exhibition COMPUTEX 2026 in Taipei, Karrie, a globally leading server mechanical engineering solutions provider, showcased its latest advancements in AI server chassis and rack-scale mechanical solutions. Observing the latest dynamics from the recently concluded NVIDIA GTC 2026 conference to this year’s COMPUTEX, it is evident that AI hardware infrastructure is rapidly evolving from the server level to rack-scale deployment, placing higher demands on high-density mechanical design, modular configuration, and liquid-cooling readiness. Driven by this evolution, Karrie has expanded its footprint from traditional server chassis manufacturing into the global AI hardware ecosystem, encompassing early engineering involvement, precision mechanical component development, and volume manufacturing execution.
Since its official inclusion in NVIDIA’s approved and recommended vendor lists for server chassis and rack components in September 2025, Karrie has continually advanced its collaborations based on the NVIDIA MGX architecture and DGX-related platforms. During COMPUTEX this year, Karrie’s relevant server products and mechanical solutions have been featured prominently across the booths of major technology giants, showcasing its milestone achievements spanning from front-end R&D and collaborative design to back-end precision manufacturing. As highlighted by Karrie’s official statement during the exhibition: “We are proud to support NVIDIA MGX™ and be part of the ecosystem shaping the next generation of AI factories.”
Mechanical Technology Upgrade: Transitioning from Traditional Chassis to Full-Scale AI Mechanical Integration to Accelerate Hardware Deployment
As the industry undergoes this generational technological shift, mechanical engineering has become a critical part of system readiness. Behind every advanced AI computing platform is a robust, precise, and production-ready mechanical foundation—from rack-level structures and server chassis to key brackets, frames, and other precision assemblies that support system integration, serviceability, and large-scale deployment.
Leveraging decades of experience in server chassis, precision metal and plastic components, tooling development, automation, and high-volume manufacturing, Karrie consistently turns complex AI server and rack-level requirements into practical, production-ready, and deployment-flexible mechanical solutions. These capabilities support customers in accelerating their infrastructure rollouts based on the NVIDIA MGX architecture and the next-generation NVIDIA Vera Rubin platform.
Deeply Aligned with the Core Supply Chain: Early Engineering Involvement Empowers Tech Leaders Toward Volume Deployment
At COMPUTEX 2026, in addition to NVIDIA, multiple system integrators and ODM partners also showcased Karrie’s 1U, 2U, and 6U series AI chassis and rack-related products developed based on the MGX architecture. This extensive display fully demonstrates Karrie’s executive capability in delivering comprehensive engineering solutions and rapid prototyping, solidifying its position as a highly engaged mechanical engineering partner in the global AI supply chain.
Strategic Positioning for the Future of Intelligent Computing: Serving as a Trusted Mechanical Partner to Build the Physical Foundation for Accelerated Computing
As AI factories continue to scale worldwide, Karrie is committed to serving as a trusted mechanical engineering strategic partner for global technology leaders. The Group will continue to deepen its collaboration with world-class chipmakers, server brands, and cloud service providers to build the ultimate physical foundation for the accelerated computing ecosystem.
Karrie — A Leading Mechanical Partner for Global AI Computing Infrastructure.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Karrie International Holdings Limited
Established in 1980 and listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong in 1996, Karrie International Holdings Limited (1050.HK) is a leading global provider of server mechanical engineering solutions. The Group specializes in server chassis, rack-scale mechanical components, and related precision metal and plastic parts. It delivers fully integrated, one-stop solutions, encompassing engineering design, rapid prototyping, tooling manufacturing, automated production, assembly, quality validation, and global delivery, to world-leading technology brands, server customers, and cloud service providers.
As AI servers and data center infrastructure accelerate their development, server mechanical components are evolving toward higher precision, enhanced reliability, and more complex rack-scale systems. Leveraging over four decades of manufacturing expertise, strong vertical integration capabilities, and a dual-production footprint in China and Thailand, Karrie continuously participates in the development of next-generation AI server platforms and rack-level solutions, providing global customers with scalable, agile, high-quality, and supply-chain-resilient manufacturing support.
Japan is preparing to replace as many as 14 ageing nuclear reactors by the 2050s, marking one of its clearest moves yet towards restoring atomic power as a central pillar of national energy security after more than a decade of post-Fukushima restraint.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has set out a policy proposal calling for the rebuilding of between two and five reactors by the 2040s and up to 14 by the 2050s. The plan would add about 16 gigawatts of nuclear capacity, helping the country meet rising electricity demand from artificial intelligence, data centres, advanced manufacturing and wider electrification.
The proposal reflects a major shift in Japan’s energy strategy. After the Fukushima Daiichi disaster in March 2011, Japan shut all 54 operating reactors, leaving the world’s third-largest economy more dependent on imported liquefied natural gas, coal and oil. Only 15 of the 33 remaining operable reactors have returned to service, while many units face retirement pressure as they approach or exceed their permitted 60-year operating life.
Tokyo’s latest energy plan targets nuclear power at around 20 per cent of electricity generation by fiscal 2040, while renewables are expected to provide 40 to 50 per cent. Thermal power, which still accounts for a large share of supply, is expected to decline but remain important for grid stability and emergency backup. The policy removes earlier language about reducing reliance on nuclear power, replacing it with a call to maximise the use of both renewables and atomic energy.
The renewed push is driven by a combination of economic and geopolitical pressures. Japan imports most of its energy, leaving households and industry exposed to volatile fuel prices, shipping risks and currency swings. The war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and tighter global gas markets have strengthened the case within government for expanding domestic low-carbon baseload power.
Electricity demand, which had been broadly flat for years, is also expected to turn higher. The spread of AI computing, semiconductor plants, battery factories and digital infrastructure has increased concern that inadequate power supply could weaken Japan’s ability to attract investment. Officials view nuclear energy as a way to provide stable, large-scale electricity without increasing carbon emissions.
The plan is likely to benefit major utilities including Tokyo Electric Power, Kansai Electric Power, Kyushu Electric Power and Chubu Electric Power, although the sector still faces high regulatory, financial and social hurdles. Reactor replacement requires local consent, safety approval, heavy capital spending and long construction timelines. Japan has not built a new reactor since before Fukushima, and public trust remains fragile.
Safety concerns remain the central political obstacle. The Fukushima disaster, triggered by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, forced mass evacuations and left deep scepticism about official oversight of the nuclear industry. Questions over seismic risk, evacuation planning, spent fuel storage and operator transparency continue to shape public debate, particularly in communities near existing plants.
Controversies have added to the challenge. Chubu Electric has faced scrutiny over falsified seismic risk assessment data at the Hamaoka nuclear plant, a facility long viewed as sensitive because of its location in an earthquake-prone area. Incidents of that kind reinforce concerns among critics who argue that Japan should prioritise renewables, storage, grid upgrades and efficiency rather than committing to another generation of nuclear infrastructure.
Supporters counter that renewables alone will not meet Japan’s industrial needs quickly enough, given land constraints, permitting delays and the intermittency of solar and wind power. Offshore wind has long-term potential, while next-generation solar technologies such as perovskite cells are being promoted, but large-scale deployment will take time. Nuclear advocates argue that replacing old reactors with advanced designs could improve safety and reliability while supporting climate targets.
The government’s approach is to rebuild reactors at existing or decommissioned nuclear sites rather than open entirely new locations, a strategy designed to reduce political resistance and use established grid infrastructure. Next-generation reactors are expected to incorporate stronger passive safety systems and improved resilience against natural disasters, although costs and construction schedules remain uncertain.
Microsoft’s unveiling of its Majorana 2 quantum chip has intensified debate over how quickly Bitcoin and other digital assets must prepare for a post-quantum security era. The chip, presented at the company’s Build conference in San Francisco, marks the next stage of Microsoft’s long-running push to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer based on topological qubits. Microsoft says the new processor delivers a sharp improvement over Majorana 1, […]
ChangeNOW has been named Best Digital Assets Fintech at the BeInCrypto x Proof of Talk Institutional 100 Awards 2026, giving the non-custodial crypto platform fresh visibility as financial institutions deepen their involvement in blockchain-based services, tokenised payments and regulated digital asset infrastructure. The award was presented at a live ceremony at the Louvre Palace in Paris during Proof of Talk 2026, a two-day Web3 and digital finance […]
Saudi Arabia has moved to reassure global energy markets that it will remain a dependable supplier as geopolitical shocks, shipping risks and divergent demand forecasts intensify pressure on producers and consumers. Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman told the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum that stability in the energy sector had become an urgent global requirement. “We are a resilient energy supplier; we have been […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai’s Emirates has promoted Hanan Mohammed Jawad and Bakhita Al Mheiri to captain rank, making them the first UAE national women to reach the command position at the airline and placing both on its Boeing 777 flight deck. The promotion gives the two pilots their fourth stripes after years of training, line flying and command preparation within one of the world’s largest long-haul […]
First Abu Dhabi Bank has entered a strategic partnership with Water. org and WaterEquity, placing capital behind an impact fund aimed at expanding access to safe water and sanitation across emerging markets. The Abu Dhabi lender has invested in the WaterEquity Everspring Fund, an open-ended vehicle designed to channel private capital into financial institutions and enterprises that serve low-income households and small businesses needing affordable water and […]
Dubai has launched SME in a Box, a digital platform intended to cut the time, cost and complexity faced by entrepreneurs setting up and operating small businesses in the emirate. The initiative, introduced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism through the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, gives founders a single entry point to access core services that are usually handled […]
Over five years, nearly 9,000 teachers and students have participated in the Fair to drive youth engagement in innovation and technology
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 June 2026 – Organised by the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation (‘HKIF’), the Fifth Hong Kong Science Fair (‘Science Fair’) will take place from 27 to 28 June 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event will showcase around 120 shortlisted teams from primary and secondary schools across Hong Kong, presenting creative inventions that integrate artificial intelligence with a diverse range of technology applications. With Sino Group as Principal Patron, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the HKSAR Government (ITIB) as the Supporting Bureau, and the Hong Kong Council for Testing and Certification (HKCTC) as Strategic Partner, HKIF is also honoured to have, for the first time, invited the Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology in China as an Advisory Organisation. Representatives from the Foundation will attend the award ceremony to witness the announcement of this year’s winning teams. Consistently a major draw for the community, the Science Fair is now open for online registration with free admission, and the public is warmly invited to attend in person.
Since its launch in 2021, the Science Fair has attracted participation from over 400 local schools, engaging nearly 9,000 students and teachers from Primary 4 to Secondary 6. To date, more than 2,200 creative invention submissions have been received, and the event has established itself as a key platform for youth I&T exchange.
Following Hong Kong’s first astronaut, Dr Lai Ka-ying, into space, the local innovation and technology ecosystem has attracted even greater attention. This year’s Science Fair has specially incorporated aerospace engineering elements, enabling the public to learn about the daily work and challenges of payload specialists, gain insight into the reality of aerospace research and development, and spark greater interest among young people in space exploration. Dr Lai launched aboard the Shenzhou-23 manned spacecraft and is expected to remain in space for approximately six months to conduct space science experiments and maintenance tasks. Visitors can express their support and encouragement by creating message cards for her. In addition, UBTECH Robotics, a globally leading enterprise in embodied AI robotics, will participate in the exhibition, showcasing multiple humanoid robots and offering visitors the opportunity to experience the appeal of embodied intelligence up close.
Professor Sun Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, stated: ‘The Hong Kong SAR Government is fully committed to developing Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre, with talent being a key driver of this growth. Now in its fifth edition, the Hong Kong Science Fair – organised by the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation – has become an annual flagship I&T education event. It offers students a valuable platform to turn their innovative ideas into practice, deepen their interest and confidence in I&T, and help bring I&T into schools and the wider community, thereby fostering a more innovation-friendly atmosphere. I look forward to seeing more young people unleash their potential through this platform, pursue careers in I&T, and contribute to the high-quality development of Hong Kong and our nation.’
Mr Daryl Ng, SBS, JP, Chairman of the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation and Chairman of Sino Group, said ‘Innovation and technology are key to Hong Kong’s long-term sustainable development and are integral to the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan. It is vital for Hong Kong to strengthen its I&T capabilities and actively contribute to national development, as underscored by the historic moment when Dr Lai Ka-ying became Hong Kong’s first astronaut. We are encouraged to see growing recognition of I&T opening up new opportunities for young people aspiring to pursue scientific research. As the Hong Kong Science Fair enters its fifth edition, its growth has been made possible by the support of the HKSAR Government, industry partners, tertiary institutions, research organisations, and our panels of judges. This year, we are grateful for the guidance and support of the Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology in China. Moving forward, the Science Fair will remain committed to nurturing talent from an early age, bringing together all sectors to promote I&T and inspire more young people to pursue careers in science and technology.’
Professor Anderson Shum, MH, Chairman of Judging Panel, Hong Kong Science Fair, President of The Hong Kong Young Academy of Sciences, said, ‘The Science Fair adopts the format of “integrating competition with exhibition,” enabling students to translate their learning into tangible and verifiable outcomes. This plays an important role in nurturing Hong Kong’s youth I&T ecosystem. I am delighted to have served as a judge for this major event over the years, witnessing students progressively enhance their presentation skills, build confidence, and broaden their horizons through exchanges with experts, participation in workshops and showcasing their work to the public. The standard of participating projects continues to improve each year, with increasing integration of artificial intelligence and diverse technological applications across different fields. Scientific research is a journey that demands passion and perseverance, and the growth of young scientists often begins with curiosity during their primary and secondary school years. Through these exchanges, we hope to leverage the role-model influence of young scientists, inspiring more students to pursue I&T as their lifelong career. I look forward to seeing our younger generation continue to grow and excel in scientific research and innovation, and officially join the community of scientists in the near future to jointly drive Hong Kong’s I&T development.’
Mr Michael Tam, Chief Brand Officer of UBTECH, said, ‘Humanoid robots are among the most promising real-world embodiments of artificial intelligence, reflecting a future in which intelligent systems are deeply integrated with the physical world. As a global pioneer in humanoid robotics, UBTECH has remained at the forefront of innovation for more than 14 years, with a long-standing commitment to I&T education. The company is dedicated to translating advanced technologies into practical, accessible educational resources. Through collaboration with like-minded partners such as the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation, we aim to inspire greater interest and engagement among both teachers and students in humanoid robotics and artificial intelligence. We are committed to supporting the development of Hong Kong’s I&T education ecosystem, helping to nurture future-ready talent and build a strong, sustainable foundation for long-term growth.’
Since its launch in 2021, the Science Fair has attracted participation from over 400 local schools, engaging nearly 9,000 Primary 4 to Secondary 6 students and their teachers. To date, more than 2,200 creative invention submissions have been received and total attendance has exceeded 120,000 visitors. The Science Fair has gradually established itself as a key platform for youth innovation and technology (‘I&T’) exchange and one of Hong Kong’s most representative I&T education initiatives. This year’s response has been enthusiastic, with over 500 project submissions received. Following preliminary judging, around 120 shortlisted teams took part in a series of workshops and mentorship sessions, and will present their projects at the exhibition in late June to compete for top awards. Gold award-winning teams from each category will have the opportunity to participate in the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva in Switzerland, fostering idea exchange with global I&T talents.
The Hong Kong Science Fair draws tens of thousands of visitors each year. During the exhibition period, the venue will be transformed into a catalyst for city-wide I&T inspiration. In addition to student showcases, five interactive zones will offer hands-on experiences, including DIY bubble bath bomb workshops, freezer-free slushie making, themed games celebrating the Science Fair’s fifth anniversary, and modified remote-controlled cars made from upcycled household appliances, allowing visitors of all ages to explore science and innovation through engaging and enjoyable activities.
Bulu Bulu Bubble Factory: Blending science with sensory experiences, visitors can mix and mould from scratch to create a delightful ‘bathroom blind box’.
Shake Shake Ice Factory: Applying the principle of freezing point depression, participants will see how temperature can be rapidly lowered using only salt, ice and water to create personalised slushies — all without a freezer.
Scan2Play: Scan the QR Code on your phone to join the themed game celebrating the Hong Kong Science Fair’s Fifth Anniversary.
Racing Homey Kart 2.0: Showcasing the spirit of upcycling and upgrades, visitors can transform old, small household appliances into remote-controlled racing cars and compete on a dedicated track.
UBTECH Robotics Base: Featuring a wide range of robots, this zone provides a comprehensive showcase of the integration of artificial intelligence with mechanical engineering.
To celebrate the Science Fair’s fifth edition, various special experiences will be introduced. The venue will feature a hidden Science Fair character treasure hunt and check-in activity, through which visitors can redeem curated gifts upon completion. Limited-edition souvenirs, including the ‘HKSF-5 Metal Standee Collection’ and the ‘Special Edition Robo K’ blind boxes, will also be available in limited quantities. All proceeds from the HKSF Bazaar, with no deduction, will go directly to charity to support local community technology initiatives.
The Fifth Hong Kong Science Fair Details:
Date: 27 to 28 June 2026 (Saturday and Sunday)
Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hall 3FG
Admission: Free of Charge (Pre-registration online is required)
Hackers are using large-scale online advertising campaigns to deliver FlutterShell, a newly identified macOS backdoor that marks a sharper turn in financially motivated malware operations targeting Apple users. The campaign, tracked as Operation FlutterBridge, is linked to a broader cybercrime cluster known as CL-CRI-1089, which has operated since at least 2023. The group has used paid advertisements, verified advertiser accounts and shell companies to place malicious promotions […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak The preliminary version of the OECD Outlook released on June 3, 2026 has projected the real GDP of India to grow by 6.3% during the FY 2026-27, which is a sharp decline from the robust growth rate of 7.8 per cent year-on-year in the quarter ending in December 2025 (Q3 FY2025–26), […]
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Bitcoin fell four percent on Wednesday to $64,721.39, its weakest level since 28 February, as pressure from fund withdrawals, leveraged liquidations and shifting macroeconomic signals deepened a broad retreat across digital assets. The slide extended a difficult stretch for the world’s largest cryptocurrency, which has moved sharply lower after failing to hold above key support levels near $70,000. Selling accelerated as investors reduced exposure to risk assets, […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai UAE non-oil private sector activity strengthened in May, but weaker demand, falling export orders and higher transport and material costs kept growth below its long-term trend, signalling a more cautious phase for businesses exposed to regional trade disruption. The headline Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 52.6 in May from 52.1 in April, remaining above the 50 mark that separates expansion from contraction. The […]
India’s oil demand growth is heading for its weakest annual pace since the pandemic as the Middle East conflict pushes up crude and fuel costs, squeezes refiners and curbs consumption across transport, aviation and industrial sectors.
Consumption growth in the world’s third-largest crude importer is now forecast at about 78,000 barrels a day for 2026, nearly 40 per cent below pre-war expectations. Excluding the Covid-hit year of 2020, that would mark the slowest expansion in a decade for an economy that has otherwise been one of the main pillars of global oil-demand growth.
The downgrade reflects the widening economic impact of the war involving Iran, which began at the end of February and disrupted flows through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. International crude prices have risen sharply from pre-conflict levels, while refined product markets have tightened as Gulf exports of fuels and feedstocks remain constrained.
India’s reliance on imported crude and petroleum products has amplified the pressure. Higher energy prices are feeding into transport costs, refinery margins, aviation fuel expenses and household fuel supply management. A weaker rupee has added to the burden by increasing the local-currency cost of dollar-denominated imports.
State-run refiners have raised some fuel prices modestly, but domestic retail prices remain well below market-reflective levels. Oil ministry estimates indicate that processors have been losing about ₹6 billion a day on sales of diesel, petrol and liquefied petroleum gas. The strain has revived concerns over under-recoveries at state-controlled retailers, even as authorities seek to shield households and small businesses from a sharper fuel-price shock.
Diesel, the largest component of petroleum product consumption, is showing the clearest signs of stress. It powers trucks, tractors, construction equipment and a large portion of industrial activity. Forecasts for diesel-demand growth have been cut heavily, with some estimates suggesting growth may slow to only 4,000 to 5,000 barrels a day, compared with earlier expectations of 50,000 to 60,000 barrels a day.
Transport operators say higher running costs are already hurting freight movement. Rajendra Kapoor, president of the All India Motor and Goods Transport Association, said customers were resisting higher freight charges even as fuel expenses had risen. He estimated that fleet movement had fallen by 15 per cent to 20 per cent, affecting the movement of farm goods, industrial raw materials and retail products.
Petrol demand remains more resilient because passenger mobility has held up better than heavy freight. Even so, growth projections for petrol have been cut by about 40 per cent to around 38,000 barrels a day. Urban commuting, private vehicle use and two-wheeler demand continue to support consumption, but high prices and government appeals for fuel conservation are tempering growth.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged people to save fuel by working from home where possible, using public transport and avoiding non-essential overseas travel. Such measures indicate how the energy shock has moved beyond refinery balance sheets into wider economic management.
Aviation turbine fuel is another area under pressure. Jet fuel costs account for a major share of airline operating expenses, and the loss of Middle East product exports has tightened supplies. Forecasts for jet fuel growth have been halved by some market consultants, while airlines face the twin challenge of higher fuel bills and weaker discretionary travel demand in price-sensitive segments.
Liquefied petroleum gas has also been hit by supply disruptions. April consumption fell to about 2.2 million metric tonnes, down more than 16 per cent from a year earlier, as import flows were affected. Authorities have asked state fuel retailers to build LPG storage capacity equivalent to 30 days of demand, a move aimed at strengthening energy security against further disruptions.
Official petroleum data showed total product consumption at 19.30 million metric tonnes in April, down 4.6 per cent from a year earlier. The contraction followed a record high of 21.75 million tonnes in December 2025, underlining the speed with which the war-related price shock has altered demand conditions.
Global oil-market agencies also disagree over the depth of the slowdown. Some forecasts still expect worldwide demand to rise this year, while others now see a contraction because of weaker refinery runs, reduced petrochemical feedstock availability and lower aviation activity. The sharpest downgrades have been concentrated in Asia, where import-dependent economies are most exposed to disruption in Gulf supply chains.
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