Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Middle East Conflict Halts Morbi Ceramics Industry, 500 Factories Closed

4/12/2026

44 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is severely disrupting Morbi's ceramics industry.
More than 500 factories have halted production as gas supplies dwindle and prices soar.
Hari Gupta, a kiln operator, and Anita Devi, a single mother, are struggling to survive after their factories closed.
A black market for cooking gas has emerged, but many cannot access it, and recovery may take months even with a ceasefire.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 oil crisis began when the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) imposed an embargo in response to U.S. support for Israel during the Yom Kippur War. This led to a 300% increase in oil prices and significant economic turmoil worldwide. Today, similar tensions in the Middle East are causing gas shortages and rising costs, impacting industries like ceramics in Morbi.

1 of 2

Story summary

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is severely disrupting Morbi's ceramics industry.
More than 500 factories have halted production as gas supplies dwindle and prices soar.
Hari Gupta, a kiln operator, and Anita Devi, a single mother, are struggling to survive after their factories closed.
A black market for cooking gas has emerged, but many cannot access it, and recovery may take months even with a ceasefire.

1 / 2