Iran War Sends Shockwaves Through Central Asia’s Fragile Economies

In Dubai, rows of cars bound for Kyrgyzstan are sitting idle. Aktilik Alipbay uulu, a Kyrgyz importer based in the city, isn't sure when they'll move. "We haven't received clear information like 'load now, it will arrive in 35–40 days,'" he says. "So, we are keeping the cars in garages. These are entrusted goods. If something happens at the port, it would mean losses for us." Previously, cars shipped by ferry across the Persian Gulf to Iranian ports then traveled overland to Bishkek. With the war in Iran, that supply chain has slowed significantly.…