Nasscom Urges Member Firms to Postpone Travel Amid Middle East Turmoil
Synopsis
In light of the escalating situation in the Middle East, Nasscom has advised its member companies to delay travel plans and facilitate remote work for employees in the region to ensure their safety. The ongoing conflict raises concerns over trade routes and export stability.
Key Takeaways
Nasscom advises deferring travel to the Middle East.
Work-from-home arrangements are encouraged for affected employees.
Employee safety is the industry's top priority.
The conflict could disrupt trade routes for engineering goods.
Input costs may rise, affecting profitability.
New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) - The National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom) has urged its affiliated companies to postpone travel plans to impacted regions due to the rapidly changing circumstances in the Middle East.
Nasscom also recommended that these companies facilitate remote work options for employees currently present in the affected areas, according to their official statement.
“We are consistently communicating with the Nasscom Middle East Council and encourage all personnel in the area to maintain regular contact with their local embassies, ensuring they heed all precautions as instructed by the relevant authorities and employers,” the organization stated.
At this moment, industry operations remain steady, although member companies are on high alert and ready to implement additional measures if necessary.
“The safety and security of employees is the topmost priority for our industry,” Nasscom emphasized.
The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran raises significant concerns for the exporting sector, as indicated by industry analysts.
“Regarding engineering goods, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are critical markets for us. They serve as a gateway for our exports to the WANA region. The escalating conflict poses a risk of disrupting engineering exports and could also impact key trade routes,” remarked Pankaj Chadha, Chairman of EEPC India.
Experts in geopolitical matters have suggested that the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for 20% of global oil supplies, could be jeopardized.
“This situation could lead to a rise in energy prices and significantly increase freight costs. We are already facing tariff pressures from the US, along with the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The latest developments only exacerbate our concerns and could severely impact our exports,” Chadha added.
The overall environment is indeed very unstable. Trade disruptions in regions like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are likely to have a considerable impact on our shipments. When combined, these factors are expected to raise input costs, further straining our revenue and profitability,” stated EEPC India.
Point of View
It is imperative to prioritize safety and security in light of the ongoing geopolitical conflicts. Nasscom's proactive approach in advising member companies to defer travel and implement remote work arrangements is a responsible measure aimed at safeguarding employees while maintaining industry operations.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nasscom's recommendation regarding travel?
Nasscom has advised member companies to defer travel to affected areas in the Middle East.
What should employees in the region do?
Employees are encouraged to stay in contact with their local embassies and follow safety precautions as advised.
How is the conflict affecting trade?
The ongoing conflict could disrupt key trade routes and impact exports significantly.
What markets are important for engineering goods?
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are critical markets for engineering goods in the WANA region.
What is the expected impact on costs?
The situation may lead to increased input costs and strain on revenue and profitability.
