The Gulf war is reshaping how Asia works

"Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade urged employers to allow remote work where possible to reduce transportation needs and fuel consumption. Vietnam has one of the region's smallest oil reserve buffers, with supplies estimated to last less than 20 days."

"Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a four-day workweek for all government offices. He has also directed public and private organizations - except those in agriculture, industry, and essential services - to ensure that 50% of their employees work from home."

"Higher prices are already threatening gig workers' livelihoods, according to a March 11 statement from the Gig Workers Association. Restaurants in several Indian cities have temporarily shut down because of high LPG prices or supply shortages, affecting an estimated one million delivery workers on platforms like Swiggy and Zomato."

The U.S.-Iran conflict is triggering widespread workplace changes across Asia as countries address energy supply concerns. Vietnam, with minimal oil reserves lasting under 20 days, encouraged remote work to reduce fuel consumption. Pakistan implemented a four-day workweek for government offices and mandated 50% remote work for public and private sectors. Thailand and the Philippines promoted flexible work arrangements, with Thai officials implementing energy-saving measures like raising air conditioner temperatures. India invoked the Essential Commodities Act to regulate LPG supplies and prevent hoarding. Major companies like Infosys reduced operational costs through cafeteria cutbacks. However, gig workers face severe income losses as restaurant closures from high LPG prices disrupt food delivery services, affecting approximately one million workers.

Read at Rest of World