War Drives Up Oil Prices and Airfares, Impacting European Interest in Travel to Asia

The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has caused fuel prices to remain high, subsequently driving up airfares and dampening travel interest. Tourism operators indicate that fares for long-haul routes between Europe and Asia are steadily increasing, leading many European tourists to abandon travel plans to Asia. Inquiry levels have significantly declined compared to the same period in previous years. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East for over two months has increased airline pressure and directly impacted choices for long-distance travel or business trips to Asia. Kunji Travel founder Yang Zheng-xun noted that long-haul tickets have risen by at least 30% compared to before the war, causing customers to extend their decision cycles. Many European consumers, seeking to avoid risks amidst global instability, are opting for short-distance travel within Europe instead. Yang emphasizes that if the war persists and oil prices continue to rise, the impact on travel costs and pricing will become even more significant.