US-Israel war on Iran disrupts art transport routes as prices surge

The US-Israel war on Iran has disrupted art shipping routes and driven up transport costs, particularly affecting Asia-based supply chains, according to art logistics professionals. Brent Crude Futures rose from about $79 per barrel before the conflict to more than $109 on 2 April, prompting airlines to raise cargo fuel surcharges; Top Space Art Service founder Wang Jianmin said air freight costs for fine art jumped 70% to 300% in the opening weeks, with Beijing–New York fuel surcharges rising from roughly $1/kg to over $3/kg (about $2,000 more per ton). Route disruptions have stranded shipments, including Per Kirkeby works grounded at Doha International Airport en route to the He Art Museum in Shunde, China, and a Bonds Fine Art Logistics consignment from Abu Dhabi to Art Basel Hong Kong that was stuck at sea for more than a month after the US sank an Iranian frigate off Sri Lanka on 4 March. Some shippers are turning to the China-Europe Railway Express network as a more predictable alternative, with Wang citing rail shipments supporting the China Pavilion at the Venice Biennale (9 May–22 November).

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